Stevie-winner Yedir is a technology-driven company operating in the food delivery sector in Türkiye with a unique focus on connecting local home chefs with nearby customers.

The platform offers fresh, homemade meals while enabling individuals, particularly those who have not previously participated in the delivery sector, to do so. By harnessing advanced technologies like AI, the Yedir App has created a solution that supports both customers and chefs, transforming the way food delivery services function.

Founded in May 2023, Yedir quickly gained attention for its innovative approach. The platform launched its final, improved version in May 2024, bringing with it a host of features designed to enhance the customer experience. These include ingredient-based meal suggestions, optimized pricing for chefs, and personalized recommendations for customers. Yedir’s success stems from addressing an unmet need in the market—connecting customers with healthy, home-cooked meals while offering local chefs the opportunity to build and grow their businesses.

Since its launch, Yedir has experienced impressive growth. By May 2024, the app had expanded to onboard 152 home chefs across 18 cities in Türkiye, with a daily growth rate of 7%. This rapid expansion was fueled by a clear market demand and a non-advertising spread strategy that saw the app reach over 1,000 users.

The platform actively contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including economic empowerment, food security, and gender equality. By offering home cooks, many of whom are women, a way to monetize their cooking skills, the app provides them with financial independence and professional development opportunities.

Moreover, Yedir ensures the health and safety of customers by adhering to stringent hygiene standards, collaborating with the Food Engineering and Gastronomy departments at İzmir University of Economics to provide training programs for chefs. This holistic approach not only improves the culinary landscape but also supports the broader goal of sustainable and inclusive growth.

In addition to its technical innovation and social impact, Yedir's success also lies in its ability to address challenges faced by home chefs. Many chefs were previously unaware of how to start and scale their businesses. Yedir created solutions that allowed these chefs to work within a flexible framework, choosing their own menus, days, and times to sell meals, which gave them more control over their business operations.

This business model, along with Yedir’s collaboration with local food companies and authorities, helped to establish home cooking as a recognized profession in Türkiye. The app’s allergen filters, calorie content display, and other health-conscious features ensure that the meals offered are safe, nutritious, and compliant with EU standards.

Yedir won a Bronze Stevie Award for Startup of the Year – Consumer Services Industries in The 2024 International Business Awards.

Interested in entering for 2025?

Stevie winners in these categories to be celebrated at April awards ceremony in New York City

Today the Stevie® Awards, organizer of the world's premier business awards programs, announced that The Brooks Group, a leading sales training and development company, is a sponsor of the Sales Team categories of the 2025 Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Winners will be announced on March 6. Complete details about the competition are available at http://www.StevieAwards.com/Sales.

The Stevie Awards are the premier business honors for sales, customer service, solution provider, and call center professionals around the globe. The sales team categories recognize the members of individual teams within overall sales departments.

The Brooks Group is a leading sales training and development company dedicated to enhancing sales effectiveness for organizations across multiple industries. Since its founding in 1977, The Brooks Group has been recognized as a leader and innovator in the sales training and performance industry. The effectiveness of its training delivery and sales process methodology is proven by continued customer success and positive reviews. Its flagship program, IMPACT Selling®, empowers sales professionals and teams with confidence and skills to generate breakthrough results.

Larissa DiStefano, VP of Marketing at The Brooks Group, shared, “The Brooks Group has a long-standing commitment to individual seller development and the overall success of sales organizations. We're proud to sponsor the Stevie's sales team awards category, which recognizes significant achievements and sales excellence."

Sales Team categories include:

Account Management Team of the Year
Recognizing the sales management team of a specific client account for their achievements.

Global Sales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams whose industry, client, or other focus has a global scope.

National Sales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams whose industry, client, or other focus has a national scope.

Government Sales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams whose charge is selling to government clients.

Field Sales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams that obtain the majority of their business out of the office at face-to-face meetings with clients.

Inside or Telesales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams that obtain the majority of their business by telephone.

Online Sales Team of the Year
Recognizing sales teams that obtain the majority of their business via online or social media.

Sales Support Team of the Year
Recognizing teams that provide administrative, logistical, or resource support to sales organizations. This category is split into four separate categories:

a. Business Services Industries: recognizes sales support teams in business services industries such as advertising, consulting, marketing, public relations, recruiting, etc.
b. Other Service Industries: recognizes sales support teams in services industries such as financial services, healthcare, hospitality & leisure, legal, media & entertainment, real estate, retail, etc.
c. Technology Industries: recognizes sales support teams in technology industries such as computer software, computer services, computer hardware, internet/new media, and telecommunications.
d. All Other Industries: recognizes sales support teams in all industries not covered by the other Sales Support Team of the Year categories.

Winners of Stevie winners in Sales Team and all other categories will be announced on March 6, and the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners will be honored during an awards ceremony in New York City on April 10.

The Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service feature more than 150 sales awards, customer service awards, business development awards, new product awards, thought leadership, and solution provider awards categories. Entrants may submit any number of nominations to any number of categories.

Winners of the 2024 edition of the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service included Allianz Services Pvt Ltd, Apexon, Ayala Land, Bank of America, Blackhawk Network, Cisco Systems, Delta Dental of Kansas, DP DHL, Everise, Hinduja Global Solutions, HP Inc., IBM Corporation, Lounge Group, Purpol Marketing Limited, Sales Partnerships, Inc., Samsung Electronics America, SAP, Splunk, Support Services Group, Tata Consultancy Services, Toco Warranty, UPMC Health Plan, VIZIO Inc., Watsons, and Weber Shandwick.

The 2025 competition was judged by more than 150 professionals around the world.

About the Stevie® Awards

Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Each year more than 12,000 nominations from more than 70 nations are judged by more than 1,000 professionals in Stevies competitions. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

About The Brooks Group

We unlock sales potential. The Brooks Group is the leading sales training and development company empowering sales teams to generate breakthrough results. Notable clients include Airbus, Avita Medical, Bobcat, Hitachi Energy, Mack Trucks and Volvo Trucks, SANY Americas, Texas Instruments, and the United States Air Force. To learn more about our suite of ROI-driven sales training and development programs, best-in-class assessments, and industry-leading reinforcement tools, visit www.brooksgroup.com.  

Sponsors of the 2025 Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service include The Brooks Group, Sales Partnerships, Support Services Group, and ValueSelling Associates.

On Saturday 22 February, winners of the 6th annual Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards were presented with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards during a majestic ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. More than 300 guests from 68 winning organizations around the MENA region attended the ceremony.

The Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, sponsored by the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Chamber of Commerce, is the region's only awards program open to all organizations in 18 nations in the Middle East and North Africa. The focus of the awards is recognizing workplace innovation in all its forms.

This year more than 1,100 nominations were considered in the judging process by more than 118 professionals, whose average ratings determined the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners announced earlier in January. 

On Saturday, February 22, winners of the 6th annual Middle East & North Africa Stevie® Awards were presented with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Awards during a majestic ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. More than 300 guests from 68 winning organizations around the MENA region attended the ceremony.

Grand Stevie Award Winners in the 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards 

In addition to honoring Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners, two Grand Stevie Award winners were presented with Grand Stevie Award trophies at the 22 February ceremony. Two winners of these Grand (“best in show”) Stevie Award trophies which are Mobile Communications Company from Iran and Professor Awad Al-Omari from Saudi Arabia.

Organization of the Year: with 47 award points, earned through seven Gold, seven Silver, and eight Bronze Stevie Award wins in various categories, Mobile Communications Company of Iran is the most honored organization in this year’s competition. Mobile Communications Company of Iran, commonly abbreviated as MCI and also known under its brand name Hamrah-e Avval, is the first and largest mobile operator in Iran. MCI has over 75 million active subscribers which makes it the biggest one in the Middle East. MCI service is available in 1,239 cities and over 70,000 kilometers of roads in Iran. They won seven Gold Stevie Awards in the categories Award for Innovation in Annual Reports, Award for Innovation in Human Resources Management, Planning & Practice - Telecommunications Industries, Award for Innovation in Training Videos, and more.

Highest Rated Nomination of the Year: with an average score from the judges of 9.37 out a possible 10, the nomination of Prof. Awad Al-Omari for Most Innovative Leader of the Year, by Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia received the highest individual average score in the 2025 competition. The nomination also won the Gold Stevie in the Thought Leader of the Year category. Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group is the largest private healthcare provider in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region. Established in 1995, the group has grown to include 25 medical facilities across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE, with a total of over 1,900 beds​. HMG is recognized for its cutting-edge medical services, advanced technologies, and commitment to delivering high-quality services.

Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie Awards, commented that this year’s awards gala witnessed an unprecedented turnout. Tickets for the ceremony sold out, gathering together more than 300 guests from around the MENA region. The award attendees included dignitaries, industry leaders, officials, company owners, chairmen, boards of directors of government and private organizations, and executive directors— all pleased to be honored on stage.

The following organizations participated in the ceremony. Only winning organizations that attended the ceremony were recognized:

• Abu Dhabi Customs
• Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council
• Acceligize
• Adaptive TechSoft
• Al Dhafra Region Municipality (DRM)
• Al Jazeera Media Institute
• Al Yamamah Trading and Contracting Company
• Barns
• Black Coral Consulting
• Canon Eurasia Görüntüleme ve Ofis Sistemleri A.Ş.
• Capital 360 Event Experiences
• Commercial Bank International
• DAMAC Properties
• DANIELI Group
• Department of Community Development (DCD)
• DHL Express UAE
• Dr. Salem Alnar
• Dubai Culture & Arts Authority
• Dubai Holding Asset Management (DHAM) and TECOM Group
• Dubai Humanitarian
• EasyLoan Financing Broker
• Ebebek Mağazacılık A.Ş
• Ekol Logistics
• Emirates Health Services
• Esam Al Zarooni Advocates & Legal Consultants LLC
• ETIHAD Aviation Group
• Etihad Salam
• Fadia O Chaker Design SARL
• Federal Tax Authority
• First Abu Dhabi Bank
• General Civil Aviation Authority
• Golin MENA
• Government of Sharjah, Economic Development Department
• Gulf Agency Co. (Dubai) L.L.C/ GAC
• Gulf Marine Services
• GSTC
• Higher Colleges of Technology
• Inception Advertising Agency
• King Fahd Military Medical Complex
• Makers Public Relations Management Co LLC
• MetLife Gulf
• Ministry of Finance
• Ministry of Interior, Justice
• Ministry of Interior, Manama
• Mobile Communications Company of Iran - MCI
• Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Subaie and Sons Charitable Foundation
• Museum1185
• Netcore Cloud Pvt. Ltd
• Now Health International
• Ooredoo Fintech
• Public Prosecution of Dubai
• Public Works Authority, Ashghal
• QNET LTD
• Roads and Transport Authority
• ROSHN Group
• Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu
• Safana Charity Association for Health Services
• Saman Bank
• Saudi Aramco
• Saudi Arabia Railways
• Saudi Contractors Authority
• Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN)
• Sharjah Self Defense Sports Club
• Silal
• SOCAR TURKEY
• Sports Boulevard Foundation
• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
• The Brain & Performance Centre, A DP World Company
• The Charitable Society for Orphan Care in Riyadh
• The Higher Colleges of Technology, Ras Al Khaimah
• The UAE Ministry of Investment
• Trustegic Chartered Accountants and Consultancy
• VUMI Global
• Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA)
• ZONE3000

See the full list of 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Winners by category

View and download photos from the awards ceremony.

Individual Acceptance speeches and red-carpet interviews are available on the Stevie Awards YouTube channel.

About the 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards

The 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards have recognized organizations in 14 nations including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates. More than 1,100 nominations in Arabic and English were evaluated in this year’s competition. Winners were determined by the average scores of 118 professionals worldwide, acting as judges on five juries to recognize innovative apps, achievements, entire organizations, public relations, customer service, human resources, individual professionals, live and virtual events, management, sustainability, technology, thought leadership, and more.

The 7th edition of the MENA Stevie Awards will open for entries in November 2025. Sign up here to request the 2026 entry kit when it becomes available.

Stevie-winner Beyond the Valley LLP (btvadventures), founded in 2022, is a premier provider of active adventures and cultural experiences in Pakistan’s stunning Karakoram region. Headquartered in Lahore, Pakistan, the company operates with a team of 10 employees and specializes in offering sustainable and responsible travel services.

Founded by Hina Umer and Umer Latif, Beyond the Valley emerged from their shared passion for travel and admiration for the serene beauty of the mountains. Despite Pakistan's awe-inspiring landscapes, the country remains an underexplored destination for many global travelers. The founders' vision was to create a company that not only provides exceptional travel experiences but also helps raise awareness about the unique cultural and natural treasures the Karakoram region offers.

Beyond the Valley seeks to change the narrative about Pakistan by promoting tourism in a way that respects both the environment and the local communities. By focusing on sustainability, the company strives to attract international visitors who are looking for responsible travel options in less discovered, yet remarkable regions of the world.

Support for Local Communities and Businesses
One of Beyond the Valley’s primary goals is to ensure that its tourism efforts benefit the local communities in the Karakoram region. The company employs local guides, transportation services, and support staff, including porters and cooks, from locally owned businesses. This approach not only enhances the authenticity of the trips but also creates direct economic opportunities for the people who call the Karakoram home.

The company employs two permanent guides (full-time) from local areas, Hunza and Skardu, respectively, which is a unique feature not found in any other organization in Pakistan, as guides are typically only employed part-time there. The guides receive regular salaries and benefits, ensuring they are well-compensated year-round, even during the off-season. These guides undergo ongoing training at the company's office, helping them stay prepared and knowledgeable about the region, its history, and its culture.

Through this holistic approach to tourism, Beyond the Valley has succeeded in providing a platform for local businesses to thrive. By integrating local products and services into their travel offerings, the company ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are shared broadly across the region.

Building Strong Partnerships and Gaining International Recognition
Since its inception, Beyond the Valley has made significant strides in expanding its reach within the global travel industry. In its first year, the company secured partnerships with leading travel companies. Clients from countries such as the UK, the USA, Austria, and Belgium have praised Beyond the Valley’s all-inclusive travel packages, awarding the company’s services with high ratings. Customers particularly highlight the hospitality of the local people and the authenticity of the experiences provided.

Beyond the Valley’s philosophy is not just about providing exceptional adventures, but also about creating lasting connections between travelers and local communities. The company’s emphasis on integrating cultural, educational, and experiential elements into each trip has contributed to its growing reputation as a responsible and impactful travel provider.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Adventure Travel in Pakistan
Beyond the Valley is helping to reshape how adventure tourism is viewed in Pakistan. By focusing on sustainability, cultural exchange, and responsible tourism practices, the company is playing a key role in promoting the Karakoram region as an exceptional travel destination.

As the company continues to expand its reach and influence, it aims to help change the global perception of Pakistan and inspire more travelers to explore the natural wonders of the Karakoram region.

Beyond the Valley won a Bronze Stevie Award for Best Small Hospitality & Leisure Company of the Year in The 2024 International Business Awards®. They also won a People's Choice Stevie Award for Favorite Companies in the Hospitality and Leisure category.

Interested in entering for 2025?

John R. Miles is a former US Navy Officer and Fortune 50 CEO who transitioned into entrepreneurship with the launch of Passion Struck, a coaching and media company focused on helping individuals, especially leaders, live intentionally.

Drawing from his own experiences overcoming obstacles—including a childhood traumatic brain injury—Miles developed a coaching platform that combines personal insights with research to guide individuals toward living purposeful, fulfilling lives. By melding compelling storytelling with expert insights and actionable strategies, Passion Struck offers a diverse range of content—including podcasts, videos, TV shows, educational materials, and live events—designed to spark the inner fire of passion and purpose.

In 2024, Miles published Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life, a book that expands on the principles of intentional living and leadership he has advocated for through his coaching company.

Overcoming Challenges and Shaping a New Path
Miles’ background is marked by his ability to overcome significant challenges. As a child, he sustained a traumatic brain injury that affected his cognition, speech, and memory. Despite these setbacks, he went on to serve as a US Navy Officer and later took on a leadership role in the corporate world. His career progression illustrates a commitment to resilience and reinvention. After his time in corporate leadership, Miles sought a new way to help others. In 2021, he founded Passion Struck with a focus on supporting individuals in designing their lives intentionally and embracing personal growth.

Passion Struck and Its Twelve Principles
Miles’ book, Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life, provides a structured approach to intentional living, focusing on principles that promote both personal and professional development. The twelve principles Miles outlines include strategies for overcoming challenges, embracing originality, setting boundaries, and engaging with others in a meaningful way. These principles are informed by both scientific research and Miles’ personal experiences, making the book a blend of theory and practical application.

Each principle is designed to guide readers in becoming more intentional in their daily lives. For example, the "Anxiety Optimizer" teaches individuals how to harness anxiety in a productive way, while the "Originality Embracer" encourages embracing unique perspectives and ideas. Miles also advocates for "Boundary Magnifiers," which emphasize the importance of setting personal limits, and "Outward Inspirers," encouraging individuals to lead with empathy.

A Platform for Growth
In addition to his book, Miles has expanded his platform with the Passion Struck podcast, which further promotes the principles outlined in his book. As of 2024, the podcast has surpassed 40 million downloads in over 169 countries. The podcast features interviews with a variety of guests, including experts in personal development, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Whether through his podcast, book, or coaching company, Miles provides resources for those looking to unlock their potential, embrace personal growth, and lead with purpose.

John R. Miles' book Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles To Unlock Your Purpose And Ignite Your Most Intentional Life by John R. Miles won two Silver Stevie Awards for Best Business Book and Best E-Book in The 2024 International Business Awards®.

Interested in entering for 2025?

The skincare industry has seen a significant shift in recent years, with some consumers prioritizing sustainability alongside effectiveness. One company leaning into this change is Botanical Skincare Lab, an Australian-based brand founded in 2022 by cosmetic chemist Kim Guseli. With a commitment to creating eco-friendly, high-quality skincare products, the company has quickly gained recognition for its dedication to zero-waste beauty.

A Mission Rooted in Sustainability
Kim Guseli's journey began with a love for creating and a fascination with cosmetic chemistry. This passion led her to become a cosmetic chemist, committed to formulating skincare products that truly make a difference.

She says, "Every product I craft is a labor of love. I take great care in formulating, using natural ingredients that are carefully chosen for their benefits. My aim is to provide you with skincare that’s both luxurious and practical, helping you look and feel your best every day."

Botanical Skincare Lab was established with a clear mission: to offer clean, effective, and environmentally responsible skincare options. The brand's focus on botanical skincare means harnessing the natural benefits of plants to promote skin health, while minimizing synthetic additives. Their dedication to sustainability is evident not only in the formulations but also in the packaging and overall business practices.

The skincare industry is known for its heavy reliance on single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials, contributing significantly to global waste. In fact, the industry produces an estimated 120 billion tons of packaging waste each year. Botanical Skincare Lab has responded to this challenge by introducing a zero-waste product line, designed to reduce packaging waste without compromising product quality.

Innovation in Action: The Zero-Waste Line
The zero-waste collection includes skincare products packaged in reusable or recyclable tins or offered completely without packaging. By prioritizing minimal and sustainable packaging, Botanical Skincare Lab aims to set a new industry standard for environmentally responsible skincare.

This approach has resonated with consumers who seek effective skincare solutions that align with their environmental values. The positive response has not only bolstered the company's reputation but has also underscored the growing market demand for sustainable beauty products.

One of their latest products is their Terra Pure Clay Face Mask Pods. These Terra Pure Clay Face Mask Pods offer a convenient and eco-friendly skincare solution. These single-use, solid clay pods are designed for easy application and are ideal for travel or at-home use. To use, simply add water or a hydrating mist to the pod, mix, and apply to the face. The natural ingredients work to detoxify and brighten the skin, leaving it refreshed and glowing.

Expanding Reach and Education
Beyond product innovation, Botanical Skincare Lab has also made strides in growing its market presence. The company has partnered with various organizations to reach a wider audience, extending its message about the importance of sustainable skincare practices.

Education plays a critical role in the brand's mission. By informing consumers about the environmental impact of traditional skincare practices, Botanical Skincare Lab hopes to inspire more individuals to adopt eco-friendly habits. The company actively uses its platform to share insights on sustainability and the benefits of botanical ingredients.

Looking ahead, Botanical Skincare Lab remains committed to continuous growth and innovation. The company aims to expand its product offerings while maintaining its focus on zero-waste and sustainable practices.

Botanical Skincare Lab won a Gold Stevie Award for Startup of the Year - Consumer Products Industries in The 2024 International Business Awards®.

Interested in entering for 2025?

Stevie-winner Umbrella IT (UIT) is a global provider of web and mobile development services and IT consulting. Over its 14 years in the industry, UIT has completed more than 250 projects for clients across a range of industries, including retail, entertainment, and education.

In recent years, UIT has grown significantly, both in its workforce and geographic presence. The team has expanded to over 300 specialists, more than doubling in size in the last three years. The company also opened offices in the United Kingdom and Dubai in 2022 to better serve its growing client base.

Bridging Technology and Practical Applications 
UIT’s work stands out for its focus on practical solutions, especially in areas like AI, machine learning, and virtual reality (VR). One of its flagship projects, the Beyond Words platform, demonstrates this approach by addressing real-world challenges in education. 

Beyond Words is an educational technology tool designed to help users improve their speaking skills. The platform uses AI to analyze pronunciation and provide detailed, actionable feedback. Its standout feature is a phonemic analysis tool, which evaluates every word and sound spoken by the user. This makes language practice more interactive and targeted, helping users to address specific areas of improvement.

To increase engagement, UIT integrated VR functionality into Beyond Words. Users can interact with virtual environments and characters, enhancing the learning process by mimicking real-life scenarios. The platform also allows users to interact with content through multiple-choice answers and voice feedback, making the experience both immersive and intuitive. Since its launch, Beyond Words has been adopted in several European countries, where it has been credited with improving students’ language skills. 

Expanding Expertise in VR 
UIT has also worked on tools designed to make VR more interactive and functional. For example, the company developed a system that allows users to pause VR scenes, interact with characters, and provide responses in real time. This solution fills a gap in the VR market by making virtual environments more dynamic and adaptable to user input. 

Behind these developments is a custom AI module that UIT created to process data in real time. This module integrates multiple AI models into a single system capable of handling complex tasks like voice recognition and real-time interaction in VR environments. These features not only enhance the user experience but also highlight UIT’s commitment to applying advanced technologies in ways that have practical benefits. 

Growth Aligned With Client Needs 
Despite its focus on emerging technologies, UIT has remained committed to addressing the practical needs of its clients. The company has developed a range of customizable services designed to adapt to different project requirements, whether for large enterprises or smaller businesses. This flexibility has allowed UIT to maintain strong relationships with clients across industries.

In addition to its project work, UIT has implemented internal initiatives to improve efficiency. For instance, it has streamlined administrative processes through enterprise resource planning systems, which simplify tasks like approvals and travel orders. These changes not only benefit UIT’s internal operations but also ensure smoother collaboration with clients. 

As UIT continues to grow, it remains focused on balancing technological advancement with practical outcomes. The company’s work in AI and VR shows its ability to tackle complex technical challenges while delivering solutions that address real-world problems.

Umbrella IT won a Gold Stevie^® Award for AI Solution in EdTech and a Bronze Stevie Award for Company of the Year - Computer Services - Medium-size in The 2024 International Business Awards^®.

Interested in entering for 2025?

Stevie-winner Design Pop is an event design company specializing in decor and entertainment for corporate events. The company’s approach combines creative storytelling, thoughtful design, and attention to detail, aiming to provide clients with events that leave a meaningful impression. 

Design Pop recently earned recognition in The 2024 International Business Awards^® for its work on a breakfast event hosted during a site visit for the Financial & Insurance Conference Planners (FICP). The FICP is a professional association that supports and connects meeting planners and hospitality partners within the financial and insurance industries. FICP provides resources, networking opportunities, and educational events to help members develop effective meeting strategies and enhance their professional skills.

The FICP activities often include organizing conferences, workshops, and site visits to evaluate potential destinations for annual programs and large-scale meetings. The organization also promotes best practices in event planning, with a focus on delivering value to stakeholders in the financial and insurance sectors.

Design Pop's event was part of an effort to showcase Puerto Rico as a potential destination for FICP’s 70th anniversary program in 2027. With high stakes for this opportunity, the company designed an experience intended to connect with the attending planners on a personal and emotional level. 

The event, held at Puerto Rico's The Conquistador Resort, transformed the venue’s Grand Ballroom into a unique setting. The room was kept pitch-black, with amber uplighting, creating a dawn-like atmosphere that symbolized new beginnings. Guests entered along a 100-foot pathway lined with Ficus trees and inspirational signage, accompanied by the song “A Million Dreams” from the movie The Greatest Showman. A stilt walker dressed as a butterfly guided attendees to the ballroom, setting the tone for a creative and unexpected breakfast experience.  
The tablescapes featured rare florals, custom vinyl signage, and themed prop books with humorous titles such as “Event Lives Matter” and “Rise & Sign: It’s Breakfast Time!” In the prop book titled “FICP: The History of Annual Conferences: From Cleopatra to Trump,” guests could read a humorous fictional backstory that represented the longevity of FICP’s association. These details were designed to engage attendees while showcasing the collaboration between the event’s sponsors. 

They executed an unexpected breakfast experience with the intention of connecting with these planners on an emotional level, using music, lighting, décor, and a thoughtful storyline that showcased partnership potential.

Design Pop organizes over 75 events annually, catering primarily to corporate planners from around the world who bring their incentive programs to Puerto Rico. From intimate gatherings to large-scale productions, the company designs and produces themed experiences, including welcome parties, awards ceremonies, galas, concerts, and beach farewells, all featuring their signature décor and customized entertainment. Recently, Design Pop has expanded its unique events globally to destinations like Madrid, continuing to create memorable experiences.

Design Pop won three Gold Stevies and a Bronze Stevie^® Award for Best Conferences & Meetings - Networking Event; Art, Entertainment & Public Pop-Up Event; Corporate & Community - Partner Engagement Event; and Brand & Experiences - Experiential Event, respectively, in The 2024 International Business Awards^®.

Interested in entering for 2025?

Stevie-winner OTTO Motors (now OTTO by Rockwell Automation) was founded in a basement in 2009 by Matt Rendall and three university friends, driven by the belief that self-driving technology would change the world. Armed with only $200 and an unshakable passion for mobile robotics, Matt and his team co-founded one of North America's first autonomous mobile robot (AMR) companies. The goal: to transform material handling in manufacturing facilities worldwide.

In 2015, OTTO launched its first AMR, designed to improve productivity by automating material handling in industrial settings. This was followed by the release of the OTTO 100, a small, agile robot ideal for lightweight payloads in person-to-person workflows. With innovative fleet management software and a reputation for excellence, OTTO quickly attracted some of the world’s top brands as customers.

Matt Rendall: Visionary Leadership
As the CEO of OTTO, Matt has been the driving force behind the company’s remarkable growth and success. His leadership and foresight in the AMR sector have been key to OTTO's market dominance. Under his guidance, the company exceeded expectations year over year.

Matt's entrepreneurial journey began with a deep commitment to solving real-world challenges through innovation. His hands-on approach and tireless work ethic were instrumental in OTTO’s success, particularly in the development of cutting-edge solutions like OTTO Lifter. Launched in March 2022, the OTTO Lifter was the world’s smartest autonomous forklift, and it made OTTO the first AMR company to offer both flatbed and forked AMRs. Matt’s vision for OTTO Lifter was grounded in addressing material handling inefficiencies, which consume 25% of the workforce, 55% of factory space, and 87% of production time. The solution also helped tackle safety concerns: manual forklifts are involved in 90% of serious accidents over their 8-year lifespan, contributing to 85 deaths annually.

Under Matt's leadership, OTTO didn’t stop there. In 2023, he oversaw the launch of the OTTO 600 and OTTO 1200 AMRs, expanding the company's already comprehensive fleet. These new robots, combined with two key software updates, enabled customers to optimize their floor space by transporting heavier payloads through narrow environments, setting new standards for efficiency in the manufacturing sector.

Rockwell Acquisition and Future Outlook
On October 2, 2023, after 15 years of exceeding ambitious goals, OTTO was acquired by Rockwell Automation, a global leader in industrial automation. For Matt, this acquisition was the culmination of years of hard work and strategic growth. Now, as part of Rockwell, OTTO will further enhance its ability to revolutionize the manufacturing industry by offering a fully connected factory solution, blending OTTO’s advanced robotics with Rockwell’s 120 years of automation expertise.

The acquisition marked a milestone not only for OTTO but also for Matt, who had been working toward this vision since the company’s founding. This partnership enables OTTO to expand its reach and accelerate innovation, helping manufacturers achieve peak efficiency with autonomous production logistics.

Looking Ahead
With Matt at the helm and the support of Rockwell Automation, OTTO is poised to continue its leadership in autonomous material handling solutions. Matt's journey from a small basement to leading an industry-changing company is a testament to his vision, resilience, and relentless pursuit of progress. His leadership continues to drive OTTO’s mission to make manufacturing facilities safer, smarter, and more efficient for the future.

OTTO by Rockwell Automation won two Gold Stevie^® Awards for Best Large Company of the Year in Manufacturing and Best Manufacturing Solution; and CEO Matt Rendall won an additional Gold Stevie Award for Executive of the Year - Manufacturing in The 2024 International Business Awards^®.

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The Culture Equation (TCE), a Stevie Award-winning management consulting firm based in Sydney, Australia, offers practical solutions to help organizations transform their cultural landscapes.

In the complex and fast-paced world of business, organizational culture has become one of the most critical factors influencing a company’s success. Culture shapes how employees interact, engage, and contribute to the organization’s mission, values, and overall performance.

TCE focuses on helping companies reshape their culture in a way that improves performance, enhances engagement, and fosters greater alignment with strategic goals. Their solutions are rooted in a deep understanding of human behavior, leadership dynamics, and team interactions, and they emphasize practical, actionable strategies over abstract theories. By applying this approach, TCE has proven that culture transformation is not an optional luxury for organizations but a necessity for sustainable success.

A Practical Approach to Organizational Change
One of the key aspects that sets TCE apart is its emphasis on delivering practical, hands-on solutions. Organizational culture is often viewed as something intangible or difficult to change. However, TCE’s approach is built on breaking down culture into manageable, measurable components. Instead of relying on generic models or prescriptive tactics, the organization tailors its interventions to the specific needs of each company it works with.

A core principle at TCE is that culture is dynamic and must be actively managed. This means working alongside companies to understand their unique challenges and goals and designing programs that address those directly.

The Culture Canvas: Defining Cultural Blueprint
One of the standout practical tools that TCE uses in its transformation process is the “Culture Canvas” workshop. This interactive workshop is designed to help organizations visualize and define their cultural landscape. The idea behind the Culture Canvas is simple yet powerful: by mapping out a company’s existing culture and identifying areas for improvement, leaders and employees alike can better understand where they are and where they want to go.

The Culture Canvas session guides participants through a structured process that encourages open discussions, collective input, and the co-creation of a shared cultural vision. It allows organizations to define their values, behaviors, and expectations in a way that is relevant and actionable for everyone within the organization. The result is a practical blueprint that aligns all stakeholders around a common cultural framework that can be integrated into everyday business practices.

What makes this approach particularly effective is its focus on collaboration. TCE doesn’t just come in as an external consultant to impose solutions from the outside. Instead, they facilitate a participatory process in which employees at all levels are engaged in the cultural transformation. This leads to greater buy-in, ownership, and commitment to the changes being implemented.

Psychological Safety: A Key Enabler of Engagement
Another central component of TCE’s practical approach is its focus on psychological safety. Research has shown that psychological safety – the feeling that individuals can take risks, speak up, and share ideas without fear of retribution – is a critical factor in fostering high-performing teams. Without it, innovation stalls, communication breaks down, and engagement levels drop.

By focusing on this practical aspect of organizational culture, TCE helps companies create environments where employees are more likely to contribute ideas, collaborate, and take initiative without fear of failure. This, in turn, leads to improved engagement, greater innovation, and a more dynamic organizational culture overall.

Ongoing Commitment
TCE's practical and tailored approach to organizational culture transformation has made them a valuable partner for companies seeking to enhance their workplace environments.

Their focus on defining culture, developing leadership, and promoting diversity provides organizations with the tools needed to foster positive and productive workplaces. The recognition from the Stevie^® Awards further highlights their dedication to excellence in the field of culture and leadership consulting. 

The Culture Equation won a Silver Stevie Award for Company of the Year - Business or Professional Services - Small in The 2024 International Business Awards^®.

Interested in entering for 2025?