Change Maker Awards 2024: Honoring Global Leaders in Sustainability and Social Impact

The inaugural Change Maker Awards 2024 concluded with great success at Le Meridien Dubai Airport, firmly positioning Dubai as a global hub for sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) excellence. The event celebrated visionary leaders, organizations, and initiatives driving positive change in sustainability, social impact, and governance innovation.

Celebrating Excellence in ESG

Organized by the ESG Organization in partnership with BNW Developments, the event recognized exceptional achievements across key categories, including Sustainability Leadership, Social Impact, Governance Excellence, and Innovation in ESG. Additionally, the awards marked the launch of the Global Association of Certified Professionals, aimed at fostering collaboration and building capacity among ESG specialists worldwide.

The evening featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and captivating audiovisual presentations, bringing together investors, NGOs, government representatives, and global media. Renowned Indian singer Padma Shri Kailash Kher delivered a stunning performance, blending art, culture, and sustainability.

Key Messages from Industry Leaders

Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman & Founder of BNW Developments, stated: “This event is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful progress. We are proud to stand with changemakers shaping a sustainable future for all.”

Vivek Anand Oberoi, Co-Founder & Managing Director of BNW Developments, emphasized: “Sustainability is not just a choice—it is an imperative. Together with BNW Developments and the ESG Research Foundation, we aim to ignite transformative change for a brighter tomorrow.”

Rajesh Kr. Bhalla, CEO of the ESG Research Foundation, remarked: “The success of the Change Maker Awards reflects the unwavering commitment of global leaders and organizations to tackle the planet’s pressing challenges. We deeply value the contributions of BNW Developments and our esteemed guests.”

Honoring Visionary Leaders

The event recognized remarkable individuals and organizations pushing the boundaries of ESG implementation. Discussions highlighted strategies like aligning corporate reports with global standards and advancing the UAE’s journey toward net-zero emissions by 2030.

Distinguished guests included:

• Mr. Faris Seed: Chairman & CEO, SEE Holdings, UAE.

• Mr. Fadi Al-Shihabi: Partner, Sustainability Solutions Leader, KPMG Middle East LLP.

• CA (Dr.) Atul Kumar Gupta: Founder Director, ESG Research Foundation.

• H.E. Dr. Mohammad S. Al Kindi: Former Minister of Environment and Water, UAE.

• H.E. Yaqoob Al Ali: Executive Director & Private Advisor, Office of H.H. Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum, UAE.

• Mr. Kapil Dev: Former Indian Cricketer, Padma Shri & Padma Bhushan awardee.

• Mr. Suresh Oberoi: Indian Film Actor & Environmental Enthusiast.

• CA Abhay Bhutada: Vice Chairman, Rising Sun Holdings.

Leaders like Mr. Kandeh Yumkella, Mr. Andreas Holmgren, Ms. Anagana Maheshwari, and Mr. Shubhendu Sharma were celebrated for their contributions to global sustainability efforts.

A New Era of ESG Collaboration

Hosted by renowned producer and presenter Ms. Shibani Akhtar, the Change Maker Awards 2024 set the tone for a new era of ESG innovation. The event inspired attendees with forward-thinking discussions, strategies, and a shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future.