Celebrating Global Changemakers Committed to Sustainability and Social Good

The year 2025 began with a powerful reminder that global progress is possible when driven by purpose, innovation, and responsibility. At the heart of this reminder was the Change Maker Awards 2024, an inspiring event that took place on January 2 at the Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Center. This event brought together a diverse group of leaders, thinkers, and innovators to celebrate efforts that are shaping a sustainable and socially conscious future.

A Platform for Recognition and Collaboration

Organized by the ESG Research Foundation in association with BNW Developments, the Change Maker Awards 2024 was more than just a ceremony. It served as a platform for ideas, dialogue, and motivation. The event recognized outstanding individuals and organizations that are contributing meaningfully to sustainability, governance, and social transformation.

It was an evening filled with impactful moments, thought-provoking discussions, and a shared commitment to building a better tomorrow. Industry leaders, environmental advocates, policy influencers, and public figures gathered not only to celebrate achievements but also to discuss strategies for long-term global change.

Also read - India's Top 5 Highest-Paid Executives in 2024

Honouring Those Making a Difference

Among the honored guests was Abhay Bhutada, a member of the Poonawalla Group known for his professional excellence and deep-rooted belief in giving back to society, his recognition at the awards highlighted the need for leadership that is both ambitious and responsible.

Abhay Bhutada has consistently contributed to education and social development through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, which focuses on supporting young learners, underprivileged communities, and progressive education models. His work reflects a growing trend among Indian leaders to merge business success with meaningful philanthropy.

The event also featured other prominent personalities such as Kapil Dev, the iconic cricketer and environmental enthusiast, and Suresh Oberoi, a veteran film actor who has been vocal about environmental preservation. These guests of honour served to reinforce the message that impactful change transcends sectors and professions.

Also read - Abhay Bhutada's Finance Journey

Performances and Presentations with Purpose

The night included soulful performances, including a memorable act by the celebrated singer Padma Shri Kailash Kher. Through music and cultural expression, the event emphasized that sustainability is not just a technical issue but also an emotional and cultural pursuit.

Award presentations were interwoven with video features of each recipient’s journey and achievements. This visual storytelling helped attendees and viewers understand the real-world effect of the work being done in communities across the globe.

Keynote Voices on the Future of ESG

The event featured powerful speeches from industry experts and ESG advocates. Speakers included:

• Faris Saeed, Chairman and CEO of SEE Holdings
  
  

• Fadi Al-Shihabi, Partner and Sustainability Leader at KPMG Middle East LLP
  
  

• Dr Atul Kumar Gupta, Founder Director of the ESG Research Foundation
  
  

Each speaker underlined the urgency of adopting sustainability practices at every level of society and governance. Their collective message was clear — sustainable development is no longer optional; it is essential.

Also read - India’s Top-Paid Executives of 2024 Set New Benchmarks in Corporate Leadership

Recognizing Global Innovators

The list of awardees was diverse, reflecting a global commitment to solving real-world problems. Some of the notable names included Kandeh Yumkella, Alexander Das, Medea Nocentini, Shubhendu Sharma, and Sanjay Kumar Garg.

These individuals were recognized for their leadership in fields ranging from environmental restoration and sustainable architecture to community development and responsible business practices.

Voices from the Organizing Bodies

Speaking about the event, Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman of BNW Developments, said that the awards are meant to act as both recognition and a reminder. He emphasized that sustainable thinking should guide all future decisions.

Vivek Anand Oberoi, Co-Founder and Managing Director of BNW Developments, reinforced their commitment to creating ecosystems that bring measurable impact.

Rajesh Kr. Bhalla, CEO of the ESG Research Foundation, highlighted the importance of partnerships and community involvement in driving ESG standards.

Jai Prakash Agarwal, Vice Chairman of the ICAI Dubai Chapter, added that sustainability is not just an institutional responsibility but a moral obligation to the planet and future generations.

A Collective Commitment to the Future

The Change Maker Awards 2024 showcased how leaders, professionals, and creators from different walks of life are contributing to a shared mission — to shape a future that values environmental protection, education access, ethical governance, and equity.

Abhay Bhutada and the work being done through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation stood out as a meaningful example of how personal belief systems and corporate experience can be used together to uplift communities. The foundation’s initiatives in education, youth empowerment, and support for underserved areas align with the broader ESG goals discussed at the event.

Conclusion

As the curtains closed on the Change Maker Awards 2024, the sentiment that lingered was one of hope and motivation. In a world that often focuses on short-term outcomes, this event offered a long-term vision — one built on responsibility, compassion, and innovation.

The presence of Abhay Bhutada, along with other global leaders, highlighted the kind of action needed to make a real difference. Events like these don’t just reward excellence — they inspire it. And as we step further into the future, such inspiration is exactly what the world needs.