TIME100 Impact Awards In Abu Dhabi Recognise Global Leaders For Transformative Contributions

The first-ever TIME100 Impact Awards took place in Abu Dhabi, honouring global leaders who have significantly influenced their industries, companies, or communities. The event was attended by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade, Jessica Sibley, TIME CEO, and various industry leaders. Four individuals were recognised at the gala on Saadiyat Island: Alexis Ohanian, Jamie Salter, Kate Kallot, and Zak Brown.

Al Zeyoudi expressed his admiration for the awardees' achievements. He highlighted how they embody the evolving world where human, technological, scientific, and social forces interact constantly. He stated that the UAE is a perfect venue to display these accomplishments and emphasise how economic success can bring prosperity and opportunities for everyone. He congratulated the winners and thanked TIME and the sponsors for organising an event that promises to become a regular feature.

All four honourees shared insights into leadership challenges and rewards. They discussed the importance of innovation, determination, and resilience. Alexis Ohanian emphasised seeking overlooked opportunities and highlighted women's sports as a promising business sector. Kate Kallot focused on building an AI ecosystem for the Global South. Zak Brown spoke about assembling a leading Formula One team. Jamie Salter stressed risk-taking as crucial to his branding empire's success.

Alexis Ohanian remarked: "Through Seven Seven Six and Athlos, I've learned to look for opportunities others might miss, and women's sports represents the next big business frontier where we can create real excitement and economic impact." He expressed gratitude to TIME, Capital.com, NMDC Group, and the UAE for supporting this vision.

Kate Kallot stated: "This TIME100 Impact Award from TIME validates our mission to help over 300,000 smallholder farmers." She appreciated TIME, NMDC Group, Capital.com, and the UAE for recognising their efforts in using AI for equity and empowerment. She praised the UAE's role as a bridge between diverse regions.

Zak Brown said: "Winning this award is truly humbling because it represents recognition not just of my leadership but of the collective effort of everyone at McLaren." He thanked Capital.com, NMDC Group, TIME, and the UAE for hosting them in a country that shares McLaren's values of uniting global talent.

Celebrating Success

Jamie Salter reflected: "Building Authentic Brands Group has taught me that success is never a straight line." He acknowledged receiving the award as an honour recognising their achievements and brands' cultural impact worldwide. He thanked TIME, Capital.com, NMDC Group, and the UAE for providing an inspiring venue embodying innovation.

The event was supported by Capital.com—Europe’s fastest-growing fintech company expanding in the UAE—and NMDC Group—a leading energy and marine services organisation with operations across MENA and South Asia.

Acknowledging Supporters

Viktor Prokopenya from Capital.com said: "Capital.com is proud to celebrate these remarkable leaders who have turned ideas into impact." He praised the UAE as a hub attracting ambitious individuals with its supportive environment rewarding genuine effort.

Yasser Zhagloul from NMDC Group affirmed their commitment to guardian leadership principles—guiding progress across sectors responsibly. He noted that innovation and resilience reflect values deeply held in both the UAE and NMDC Group.

The awards ceremony underscored how ambition combined with collaboration can lead to shared progress globally. The event celebrated leaders whose work exemplifies these ideals while contributing positively within their fields.

With inputs from WAM