Seatrade Maritime #20under40 Awards, held as part of Seatrade Maritime Middle East (SMME), the largest in-person exhibition and conference taking place during UAE Maritime Week – under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure – has announced an extension on nomination deadline. The awards are in association with Informa Markets Maritime Global Maritime Club. A high volume of participants and heightened interest from industry stakeholders prompted organisers to extend the nomination closing date to 10^th October.

The #20under40 Awards aim to recognise the top 20 maritime industry professionals under the age of 40. The awards will celebrate the success and achievements of industry professionals who have paved the way for change in the industry and shed light on innovation, paving new growth opportunities for other professionals.

H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport, Affairs, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the first Regional Ambassador of the Global Maritime Club, said, “Over the past year, we have faced unprecedented challenges that have disrupted various sectors across the globe, including the maritime and shipping industries. During the past year, the sector has stood the test of time, however, we were quickly able to overcome the challenges by demonstrating resilience. Tackling the adverse effects of the pandemic would not have been possible without the support of industry players who have elevated the sector to new heights. Seatrade Maritime #20under40 Awards is a great platform that recognises the commendable work of young industry professionals. As young people are the custodians of tomorrow, we hope the awards empower them and give them the stimulus to think unconventionally, creating a better future for the generations to come.”

Allowing young talents to shine

The maritime sector in the Middle East has been booming with the UAE leading in the region. Currently the contribution of the sector to the UAE’s GDP is estimated at AED 91 billion annually, with efforts being made to double this figure within the next few years. To ensure this growth, the contribution from young industry professionals is integral, especially as the industry is constantly witnessing new disruptions. With a greater focus on environmental challenges, innovation and digital growth, there is more of a place now than ever for young talents and initiatives like 20 under 40 help companies to acknowledge the wealth of skills

Chris Morley, Group Director – Maritime Events, Informa Markets Maritime said, “Despite market disruptions over the past year, nations like the UAE exercised their competencies, in turn retaining their leading position in the competitive indexes. We aim to boost growth opportunities for the wider maritime sector in the Middle East and the #20under40 Awards will be instrumental in providing the right platform for young individuals to grow and thrive. By extending the deadline for nominations, we want to ensure that every worthy participant gets a chance to apply and benefits from the numerous opportunities that come with winning such a coveted award.”

Emma Howell, Director of Digital and Commercial Content, Maritime – Informa Markets commented, “The last couple of years have been harder than ever for the industry. In our attempt to continuously support the industry, we are delighted to provide a platform like the #20under40 Awards that gives an opportunity to showcase their commitment to the industry. Whether you have been a great leader, achieved a great outcome from a project, solved a challenge or done something above and beyond your role that shows your ambition, we want to hear it.”

Individuals whose scope of work directly impacts the shipping and maritime markets in the Middle East are eligible and encouraged to apply. After registering their interest on the website, applicants will undergo a highly selective process, where the judging panel will consider each participant’s achievements that demonstrate their leadership qualities, skills and ambitions. Winners will be announced during the Seatrade Maritime Middle East conference and will be invited to collaborate on research, briefings and other exciting opportunities.

To begin a nomination, visit the link https://eu.eventscloud.com/eSites/200227086/Homepage