Westford Awards 3rd edition honours excellence in business and beyond

The Mina Al Salam at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, was transformed into a vibrant centre of celebration and recognition as the 2nd Edition of the Westford Awards unfolded with unparalleled grandeur. This prestigious event was a tribute to exceptional achievements across various industries, showcasing the spirit of innovation, excellence, and leadership that continue to drive businesses and individuals to new heights.

Hosted by Virgin Radio's Maz Hakim, the evening began with an inspiring welcome address from Hanil Haridas, Co-founder and CEO of Westford University College. The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards in five distinct categories, recognising trailblazers and visionaries who exemplify the values of excellence and progress.

Business Excellence: Celebrating industry leaders

In the Business Excellence category, leaders and organizations emerged as trailblazers, each carving their unique path to success across a wide range of sectors. From fintech to aviation, these winners exemplified innovation, resilience, and impact.
Notable winners included:

• Abreco Group

• ACWA Power

• Al Fardan Exchange

• ALEC Engineering and Contracting

• American Specialty Foods

• Aster DM Healthcare

• BNC Network

• Cummins Arabia

• DAMAC Properties

• DP World

• DSV

• Dubai Design District  

• Exordium

• Ford Motors

• INC. Arabia

• Insider MEA

• ITP Media Group

• NMC Healthcare

• RAK Ceramics

• SAP

• SIEMENS

• The Entertainer App

• Zoho Corporation

Each recipient was honoured for their unwavering commitment to excellence, setting the standard for leadership and innovation in their industries.

The Business Impact category recognised organisations and start-ups making significant strides in social responsibility, sustainability, and innovation. These winners are leading the way in shaping a better future for industries and communities alike, with sustainable products and groundbreaking ideas.
The companies recognised for their contributions to making a positive difference include:

• Pupilar

• FGI Global Solutions

• Moneytize

• Mueen

• Homepreneurs Club

• Hunger Station

• Paltics Studio

• Brands for Less Group

• HYPR Energy

• Pure Harvest Farms

These winners are true changemakers, proving that business can be a force for good in society.

In the Social Impact category, champions emerged, embodying compassion, advocacy, and cultural enrichment. These individuals and organizations are making a profound difference by advancing social welfare, promoting cultural initiatives, and advocating for meaningful change in their communities.
The honorees in this category include:

• Lizzom

• Jameel Arts Center

• Dr Mariam Ketait

• Reem Al Marzouqi

• Sri Lankan Welfare Association (SLWA) - SAHANA

• Indian People’s Forum

Each of these honorees has set an inspiring example of how one can make a tangible difference through social responsibility.

Service Excellence was truly embodied by the individuals and organisations honoured in this category, each of whom went above and beyond in their commitment to serving others. These recipients showed the true spirit of service, dedication, and passion for their fields.
The outstanding individuals and organisations recognised for their exceptional service include:

• Bayzat

• Chef Nouel Omamalin

• Dr Elsayed Ali Mesalam

• Kristha Francis Desesto

• Nada El Gazzar

• Sreemanthi Gijare

• Suaad Al Suwaidi

• Thomas Blakemore

• Zurich Workflow Solutions

Each honoree has raised the bar for what it means to deliver exceptional service, showing what is possible when dedication and passion meet action.

Ultimately, in the realm of Leadership Impact, visionaries stood tall, guiding industries and communities towards a brighter tomorrow. The contributions of the following leaders illuminated the path forward in business, innovation, and society.

The winners in this category include:

• Almudena Berzosa

• Sabiha Shakil

• Anas Mistareehi

• Dr Adrian Waite

• Kunal Wadhwani

• Mariam Farag

• Haji Jamaluddin

• Maher Al Kaabi

• Nikkhil Malhotra

• Piotr Konopka

• Dr Rashed Karkain

• Dr Reem Osman

• Rezan Ibishukcu

• Toufic Kreidieh

• Mohammad Al Mazrouei

• Zaid A.M. Habahbah

• Yasmin El Nazi

These leaders have made a significant impact, paving the way for future growth and success.

Best Brand Awards: Reflecting student preferences

Additionally, the event showcased the Best Brand Awards, where over 1,500 students from Westford University College shared their preferences and trust in the brands that have made a mark on their lives. These recognised brands represent the values of excellence and leadership in their respective industries.
The brands honoured include:

• ADNOC

• Al Futtaim

• Almarai

• Carrefour

• Emaar

• Emirates

• ENBD

• Etisalat

• IMG World of Adventure, Dubai

These brands have earned their place as favourites among students, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and innovation.

The evening culminated with the presentation of trophies and certificates of appreciation to all recipients, symbolizing their remarkable achievements. The event was graced by Westford Education Group partners and distinguished academic dignitaries from universities including Cardiff Metropolitan University, UCAM, Murcia, Spain, Canterbury Christ Church University, University of Gloucestershire, Abertay University, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Scottish Qualifications Authority. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in fostering excellence.

Westford University College is an institution that is deeply committed to promoting excellence in organisations through its unique process of nomination, selection, and jury decisions involving both academicians and industry experts. This approach strengthens its industry ties and helps students bridge the gap between academia and the real world, preparing them to succeed in a fast-paced and evolving global landscape.

The Westford Awards, a hallmark initiative by Westford University College, serves as a beacon of meritocracy, guided by a jury of industry leaders, academics, and student feedback. As the ceremony continues to inspire future leaders and recognise excellence, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and impact driving businesses and industries worldwide.