STÄFA, SWITZERLAND – Phonak, a global leader in innovative hearing solutions, will mark World Hearing Day on March 3 with a global campaign spanning three continents, placing youth hearing health at the center of the conversation. Together with its three international ambassadors, Phonak aims to encourage children and teens to protect their hearing, understand the risks of hearing loss, and feel confident pursuing their goals with the support of modern hearing technology.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 90 million children aged 5–19 worldwide live with hearing loss. Many cases remain undiagnosed or preventable, potentially affecting speech and language development, learning, confidence, and social inclusion. This year’s World Hearing Day places particular focus on youth and the importance of early action.
As part of the campaign, Phonak ambassadors will share messages encouraging young people to protect their hearing and reminding those with hearing loss that modern technology can support full participation in school, sports, the arts, and everyday life.
On World Hearing Day, large-scale digital displays and installations will appear in prominent public spaces including Antwerp Central Station (Belgium), Shibuya Crossing (Japan), and Times Square (United States).
Ambassador Participation Across Three Continents
Professional basketball player and EuroLeague champion Emma Meesseman will launch the campaign in Belgium on February 26, encouraging young people to take ownership of their health and develop habits that protect hearing long-term.
“I’m passionate about empowering kids to be their own health advocates,” said Emma.
“They can make smart choices early, especially when it comes to their hearing. I’m proud to use my platform to raise awareness about hearing loss and reduce the stigma around it.”
Legendary guitarist and co-founder of the rock band Mr. Big, Paul Gilbert, will bring the campaign to Japan on February 28, highlighting the importance of hearing protection for musicians and music fans alike.
Through high-visibility displays in Shibuya, the campaign encourages young audiences to understand the risks of noise exposure and adopt healthy listening habits.
Image credit: Mark Mann
Principal dancer at the New York City Ballet Sara Mearns will appear in the campaign in New York City’s Times Square on March 2, sharing a message centered on confidence and possibility. She emphasizes that hearing challenges should not limit ambition and that today’s hearing technology supports connection and engagement.
“At Phonak, we are proud that Emma, Paul, and Sara are using their visibility and influence to bring hearing health into everyday conversations worldwide,” said Oliver Frank, Vice President of Phonak Marketing.
“By placing this message in global landmarks, we want as many people as possible to recognize that hearing care is not optional, it is a public health priority, especially for our next generation.”
Together, Phonak and its ambassadors share one message:
Never stop dreaming. Care for your hearing.
To learn more about Phonak’s World Hearing Day campaign and its ambassadors, visit:
https://www.phonak.com/en-int/meet-our-ambassadors
Follow the ambassadors on Instagram:
@emma_meesseman
@paulgilbert_official
@saramearns
About Phonak
life is on. Since 1947, Phonak has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with hearing loss. Seventy-five years later, the company continues to develop hearing solutions designed to help people thrive physically, socially, and emotionally. Phonak offers a broad portfolio of hearing solutions and works to advance public understanding of hearing health and reduce stigma associated with hearing loss.
About Sonova
Sonova is a global provider of innovative hearing care solutions, including personal audio devices, wireless communication systems, audiological care services, hearing aids, and cochlear implants. Founded in 1947 and headquartered in Stäfa, Switzerland, Sonova operates through four businesses: Hearing Instruments, Audiological Care, Consumer Hearing, and Cochlear Implants. Core brands include Phonak, Unitron, AudioNova, Sennheiser (under license), and Advanced Bionics, along with regional brands. The Group operates in more than 100 countries.
In the 2024/25 financial year, Sonova generated sales of CHF 3.9 billion and a net profit of CHF 547 million. Approximately 18,000 employees worldwide support Sonova’s vision of a world where everyone can enjoy the delight of hearing.
In 2025, Sonova was ranked No. 12 among Europe’s most innovative companies by Fortune magazine. For more information, visit www.sonova.com.
About the World Health Organization
Founded in 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) is the United Nations agency responsible for international public health. WHO works with nations and partners to promote health, respond to health emergencies, and advance universal health coverage worldwide.
Source: Sonova
