Nahla Zayed In the presence of ministers, leading business figures, and renowned artists
The TAKREEM Foundation is set to host the fourteenth edition of its annual awards ceremony on Sunday, 30 November 2025, in an evening dedicated to honoring Arab excellence and celebrating Cairo’s status as a capital of culture and creativity. The historic Abdeen Palace Museum will provide the prestigious backdrop for this exceptional event.
Established in 2009, the TAKREEM Foundation continues its mission of spotlighting Arab success stories and recognizing individuals who drive positive change across various fields. This year’s ceremony is expected to gather a distinguished audience, including government ministers, prominent business leaders, members of the Saudi royal family, celebrated Egyptian artists, public figures, and leading cultural and intellectual icons.
Throughout the evening, the foundation will honor a select group of Arab innovators, pioneers, and changemakers across its core award categories: Excellence in Education, Humanitarian and Social Excellence, Scientific and Technological Achievement, Cultural Excellence, Institutional Leadership, Sustainability and Environmental Leadership, and Lifetime Achievement.
The celebration will conclude with a formal gala dinner, bringing together attendees for a night dedicated to celebrating Arab identity and its enduring influence and ability to inspire hope on the international stage.
About TAKREEM Foundation
Founded in 2009 in Beirut, TAKREEM is a leading non-profit organization committed to reshaping global perceptions of the Arab world by highlighting the achievements and successes of Arabs around the globe. Over the years, the foundation has honored exceptional personalities from across the Arab region, strengthened connections among communities, and promoted a positive, inspiring image of Arab identity.
TAKREEM has built meaningful bridges between North Africa, the Middle East, the Gulf, and the Arab diaspora, creating a dynamic network of innovators and influential figures. It continues to highlight the region’s contributions across culture, education, science, the environment, humanitarian work, social development, and economic progress.
The foundation held its 2024 annual charity gala in Monaco, under the patronage of Prince Albert II. Since its inception, TAKREEM has honored nearly 100 distinguished Arab figures, including renowned architect Zaha Hadid, Princess Ghida Talal of Jordan, world-leading Egyptian heart surgeon Dr. Magdi Yacoub, and Lebanese artist Nabil Nahas, among many others.
More information is available at: https://www.takreem.org
About Ricardo Karam — Founder of TAKREEM Foundation
Ricardo Karam first rose to prominence in Beirut during the 1990s, a time marked by reconstruction, economic revival, and renewed hope in the Lebanese capital. His first television program, launched in 1996, achieved immediate success by hosting prominent Lebanese cultural figures who represented the country’s pre-war golden era. The program offered viewers a window into a time when Brigitte Bardot dined in Byblos, and Miles Davis and Ella Fitzgerald performed at the timeless ruins of Baalbek.
Despite studying chemical engineering at the Arab University of Beirut, Ricardo’s passion for music and entertainment drew him into television. Known for his deep, thoughtful interview style—distinct from the sensational talk shows that dominated Lebanese screens—he built a loyal following early in his career. His work later expanded to conversations with global leaders, activists, and decision-makers across politics, business, culture, and the arts, marking an exceptional achievement for an Arab presenter.
Through these influential dialogues, Ricardo encouraged Arab audiences to broaden their horizons and embrace ambition. His career evolved from interviewer to author, public speaker, and advocate for Arab creativity and social causes. In 2010, he founded the TAKREEM Foundation, driven by his belief in the region’s potential and the importance of honoring its pioneers.
In 2018, he launched TAKMINDS, an initiative designed to unite communities through thought-provoking discussions and events aimed at inspiring change. In 2019, he introduced TAKREEM America to connect Arab expatriates in the United States and the Americas with their cultural roots and the aspirations of their region.
Today, Ricardo Karam speaks and moderates at major economic, cultural, and political forums worldwide. He also serves on the boards and advisory councils of several universities, institutions, and non-profit organizations, lending his expertise and network to support their missions.
