Dubai: The Change Maker Awards 2024 unfolded on January 2 at the Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre, celebrating global leaders driving sustainability, social impact, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) innovation. Organised by the ESG Research Foundation in collaboration with BNW Developments, the prestigious event reaffirmed Dubai’s standing as a global hub for sustainable progress.

The evening was a celebration of innovation and collaboration, featuring inspiring keynote speeches, engaging panel discussions, and visual tributes to the honourees. Attendees included influential figures from business, government, and media, creating a platform for fostering global ESG initiatives. Adding a cultural touch to the evening, the audience was mesmerised by an electrifying performance by the legendary Kailash Kher, blending art, culture, and sustainability in a captivating showcase.

Keynote addresses were delivered by eminent personalities, including Faris Saeed, Chairman and CEO of SEE Holdings, UAE; Fadi Al-Shihabi, Partner at KPMG Middle East LLP; and CA (Dr.) Atul Kumar Gupta, Founder Director of the ESG Research Foundation. The event was further graced by the presence of notable guests of honour such as former cricketer Kapil Dev, actor Suresh Oberoi, Vice Chairman of Rising Sun Holdings CA Abhay Bhutada, Executive Director H.E. Yaqoob Al Ali, and H.E. Dr. Mohammad S. Al Kindi, former UAE Minister of Environment and Water. Renowned presenter Shibani Akhtar hosted the evening, captivating the audience with her engaging style.

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The awards recognised exemplary contributions to sustainability and ESG by trailblazing individuals and organisations. Among the distinguished honourees were Kandeh Yumkella, Chockkalingam Karuppaiah, Ricky Vasandani, and Nausherwan Shah, each celebrated for their innovation and dedication to building a sustainable future for generations to come.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman of BNW Developments, remarked that the awards are not just about recognising achievements but about inspiring leaders to make sustainability the cornerstone of progress. Vivek Anand Oberoi, Co-Founder and Managing Director of BNW Developments, highlighted the event’s role in reinforcing their commitment to creating sustainable ecosystems and redefining global ESG standards. Rajesh Kr. Bhalla, CEO of ESG Research Foundation, expressed pride in bringing together changemakers and reaffirmed the importance of collaborative efforts in driving global sustainability initiatives.

The Change Maker Awards 2024 served as a testament to Dubai’s unwavering dedication to fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration on a global scale.