The MARE NOSTRUM Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their lives to promoting the Mediterranean and its values globally.
Dr. Gavin Gulia, the outgoing Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority, whose visionary leadership has played a pivotal role in transforming Malta into a premier tourism destination, with a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism.Dr. Hossam Badrawi, a distinguished Egyptian physician and politician, for his influential work in education reform and his dedication to improving lives across the Mediterranean region. His legacy continues to inspire communities.Chef Stevo Karapandza, a Croatian culinary legend whose dedication to Mediterranean cuisine has brought our regional flavours to the world stage, elevating the Mediterranean diet as an integral part of our identity.
AKDENIZ Awardfor the advancement of Mediterranean Culture and Identity
This award celebrates those who have advanced Mediterranean culture and identity through their work in the arts, music, and public influence.
Gibonni, the Croatian pop musician, whose artistry has captivated millions and helped share the Mediterranean spirit with the world.Doreen Galea, a pioneer of Maltese music, whose work has defined Maltese musical culture and helped shape Malta’s Mediterranean identity through music abroad.Costas Tsoclis, the celebrated Greek artist for his contributions to Mediterranean art reflect our rich cultural heritage. The award was received in absentia, by his daughter Maya TsoclisFabio Bozzatelli, one of Italy’s top entrepreneurs, is honored for his creation, as inspired by his late father Cavalieri del Lavoro Domenico Bosatelli of the Chorus Life Smart District, a Mediterranean cultural hub in Bergamo, Italy, cementing his place as a champion of Mediterranean culture.Ramzi Khamis, a Palestinian consultant cardiologist, is recognized not only as an important player in the international medical tourism field but equally important for his humanitarian contributions and his commitment to preserving his Mediterranean roots, inspiring resilience and strength.
THE GREAT SEA AWARDS
Outstanding Policymakers and Business Influencers
This category honours those whose leadership in policy and business has had a transformative impact on the Mediterranean tourism industry.
Aradhana Khowala, CEO and Co-founder of Aptaminds, for her visionary leadership in promoting sustainable tourism practices worldwide. Aradhana’s work has revolutionized the way businesses in the tourism industry approach sustainability, setting new benchmarks for responsible growth and ethical tourism practices across the globe.Theocharis Theocharis, former Greece’s Minister of Tourism, and candidate for the position of UNWTO Secretary General, for his exemplary vision in advancing global tourism leadership. His work has reshaped Greece’s tourism policies and has positioned the Mediterranean region at the forefront of sustainable tourism discussions.Stephen Rushmore Jr., President and CEO of HVS, is another recipient, recognized for his invaluable insights and leadership in the hospitality industry. Under his guidance, HVS has become one of the most influential consulting firms in global tourism and hospitality, providing expert guidance that has shaped the strategies of hotels, resorts, and travel businesses worldwide. His impact on the industry is immeasurable, influencing developments across continents.
Authentic Ambassadors of Mediterranean Cuisine & Beverage Products
This award recognizes those who have promoted Mediterranean culinary traditions and beverages globally.
Chef Simon Rogan, a Michelin three-star chef, renowned for his sustainable approach to gastronomy and his dedication to bringing Mediterranean flavours to the international stage.Jelena Majic Nosic & Drago Nosi? representing POETICA Distillery, honored for their innovative approach in crafting and promoting world-class gin, infusing it with Mediterranean identity and breaking boundaries to place the region at the forefront of global gin production
Sustainable Tourism Business Policy
This category honors individuals who have made significant contributions to sustainable tourism practices.
Antonello Rizzello, Founder and President of “Dimore Storiche Neretine,” for his efforts in promoting sustainable tourism through the preservation of historical sites and embracing the concept of “albergo diffuso,” a unique form of hospitality where historical villages are transformed into distributed hotels, blending the heritage of the region with the comfort of modern travel.Mark Weingard is recognized for his regenerative tourism practices and his visionary investments in Malta, including his flagship hotel INIALA, which has been recognized by Forbes Travel Guide as one of the best in the world. His work exemplifies the future of luxury tourism grounded in sustainability and service excellence.
Promotion of Mediterranean Cultural and Sustainable Tourism Destinations
This award honours those who have recognised and worked for a sustainable tourism model which centres around culture.
Dora Milad, President of the Tunisian Hotel Association, for her leadership in promoting Tunisia as a cultural and sustainable tourism destination, making her the first woman to hold this esteemed positionMarian Muro, former Director General of Tourism for Catalonia and Turisme de Barcelona, has worked tirelessly to position Barcelona as a hub for Mediterranean culture and sustainable tourism. Her work demonstrates that tourism management should focus not only on tackling overtourism but also on fostering better-managed tourism initiatives for the benefit of both residents and visitors.
Promotion of Mediterranean Cultural and Sustainable Tourism Destinationsand Events
This award recognizes the exceptional efforts of destinations and events organisers that have contributed to preserving and promoting Mediterranean culture and sustainable tourism.
Marialina Marcucci a leading political and business personality in Italy and beyond, also President of the Viareggio Carnival, an event renowned for its centuries-old tradition of celebrating Mediterranean culture through spectacular parades and artistic expression, making it a symbol of sustainable cultural tourism in Italy.Hakan Aslansoy, the Deputy Mayor of Gaziantep, who will accept this award on behalf of the city. Gaziantep, a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, has been recognised globally for its dedication to preserving culinary traditions, promoting sustainable gastronomy, and contributing to the Mediterranean’s rich food heritage.
Research in Innovative Regenerative Tourism Solutions
Professor Willy Legrand is honoured for his groundbreaking research in regenerative tourism solutions, setting him apart as a pioneer in the field.
Special Award: Promotion of Aesthetic Beauty as a Pillar of Sustainable Tourism
Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, a neurologist and expert in neuroaesthetics, is recognized for his work on the perception of beauty. MTF believes that beauty should be at the core of decision-making, both for policymakers and business leaders, in promoting Mediterranean tourism as a reflection of our shared Mediterranean identity