Arab achievements award launched

To challenge stereotypes and to improve the image of Arabs, the Takreem Arab Achievement awards 2011 were officially launched in Doha on Monday evening.

The awards aim at spreading the accomplishments of outstanding Arabs and sharing with the world their success stories, celebrated Lebanese journalist and initiator of the programme, Ricardo Karam said.

Worldwide there are an estimated 350mn Arabs. The awards will be given in 10 categories, philanthropy and charitable services, woman of the year, exceptional international contribution to Arab society, excellence in education, young entrepreneur, environmental development and sustainability, scientific and technological achievement, cultural excellence, outstanding corporate leadership and advancement of peace.

“Our main objective is not only to communicate the true identity of Arabs, but also to become a major source of inspiration for present and future generations,” Takreem business development manager Claudia Berberi said.

The nomination process is set by highly-qualified experts, utilising a strict framework for candidate selection which guarantees equal opportunities for entry with no prejudice or discrimination regarding religion, gender, Arab origin, political beliefs or age, Berberi said.

The two-phase screening process begins with the selection committee, which shortlists the finalists. Individuals can also nominate their candidate. At the inaugural event last year, the international jury comprised HRH Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan, Dr Boutros Boutros-Ghali, Dr Marwan Muasher and Carlos Ghosn. “The new international jury will be announced in January 2011,” officials said.

The Takreem initiative is planned to culminate with an annual ceremony held in a different country around the world. The name of the country will be announced at a later stage, they said. The Takreem initiative achievers should be of Arab ancestry, except for the exceptional international contribution to Arab society award.

They should be active in business and/ or social settings, prominent in their respective field, cultured and have either a social, cultural, entrepreneurial, scientific, educational, humanitarian, civil or business background.

“The Takreem Arab Achievement awards are essential in contributing to the appreciation of Arab heritage, culture, and identity,” marketing manager Joelle El Khoury said.

Qatar was the first in a series of stops for Takreem officials, for creating awareness around the world.