JEDDAH — The first edition of Saudi Top Achievers Award (STAA) was conducted to honor the successful and outstanding performances of top achievers in Saudi Arabia. It was expected to be one of the most dynamic and inspirational events of the year, unfolding and recognizing top achievers who have achieved significant breakthrough in their respective industries/fields and whose work has resulted in a positive and profound impact on the Saudi economy.

This prestigious event was conceptualized and executed by MyEvents International KSA in partnership with Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industries (JCCI) at the Jeddah Center for Forums and Events. The awards coincided with the 75th anniversary of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).

The glittering event was graced by JCCI Vice Chairman Sheikh Mazen Batterjee as the guest of honor and the achievements in over 20 categories were recognized and honored during the event.

STAA celebrated leadership spirit and inspires innovation across all sectors to highlight the success and outstanding performance of achievers. The high-rank jury was headed by Khaled Almaeena, former editor in chief of Arab News and Saudi Gazette, and included AbdulRahim Hasan Naqi, secretary general of FGCCC, Sofana Dahlan, founder of Tashkeil, and Shahul Hameed bin Shaik Dawood, president of My Events International.

The winners were awarded for the contribution in their industry across the Kingdom: Jabal Omar Development Company for Outstanding Architecture initiative award, Al Hussam Co. Ltd., for Industry Excellence in Umrah & Haj Services and Tourism, WASCO for Industry Excellence in Integrated Waste Management, Binzagr Co. for Industry Excellence in FMCG Distribution, Assila Hotel Jeddah for Industry Excellence in Hospitality, Danube Online for Industry Excellence in Food & Beverages, KSI Financial Consultants for Industry Excellence in Financial Services, and Haji Husein Alireza & Co. Ltd. for Industry Excellence in Automotive Products & Services, Al Khafrah Holding as Sustainable Company of the year, Al Oula for Leadership Excellence in Empowerment, and Tadweeer National Environment Recycling Co. for Environmental Initiative of the year.

Moreover, in line with the government’s commitment to develop home-grown talent, STAA recognized the emerging talents, included: The Founder of Lomar, Loai Naseem as Leadership Excellence in Fashion Industry, Khaled Ahmed Hassan Sharbatly as Emerging Leader in Solar Energy, Dr. Shadi Fouad Khawandanah as Emerging Business Leader of The Year and Hamad Elonizi as Emerging CEO of the year. Among other winners were Raha Moharrak, Majed M. Al Tahan, Shaimaa Azzam, Saleh Yousof Kashmeri, Abdulaziz AlShamsan, and Mariam Saleh Binladen.

To celebrate the absolute achievements of those leaders whose work is harmonious with a focus on innovation that brings economy towards a better future, following masterclass winners were recognized: Thamer AlHarbi from Microsoft, Ahmad AR. Bindawood, and Lamah F. Al-Khayyal from Saudi Aramco.

Princess Haifa Bint Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud was awarded as The Philanthropist of the year for her long-term contribution to healthcare, poverty, and empowerment of Saudi Women. The lifetime achievement award was presented to Dr. Thoraya Obaid, acknowledging her contribution in the United Nations Population Fund in Saudi Arabia.

It was the perfect opportunity to celebrate achievers who have distinguished themselves by their foresight and determination. These awards not only recognized businesses which perform well financially but also recognized those who clearly anticipate the future needs of society in the economic sector they operate. — SG