Takreem is a non-profit organisation founded in 2009 by Ricardo Karam to honor Arab individuals or organisations that have contributed to the development of their respective communities and to the betterment of the world in the fields culture, education, science, environmental studies, humanitarian services, and socio-economic development. Takreem’s aim is to inspire younger generations and to prove to the world that in the midst of the misconceptions, Arabs can prosper, embrace creativity, freedom of thought, human rights, entrepreneurship, advanced technology and gender equality. The organisation's road map consists in conferences, symposiums, meetings, mentorships and an Awards Ceremony organised in a different city every year.
History
Karam launched this initiative in 2004. Observing the guests he had interviewed on his talk show, he realised that the Arab world needed to highlight more of its achievers, stating “…every year we try to spot different achievers from different fields, and we try to give hope to the youth by telling look at these examples. You can make it as well.” Karam announced Takreem at a press conference held at École supérieure des affaires, Beirut.
Activities
Takreem holds year-round activities such as conferences, panel discussions, talks, forums, in addition to its annual Awards Ceremony. These activities host notable figures from different parts of the world who share their insights on important issues drawing on their life experiences and careers.
Conferences
Panel discussions
TAKminds
In 2018, Takreem expanded to also include TAKminds, to not only celebrate the talents of the Arab world, but to also provide them with a platform where they can connect, build bridges and find new ways together to create sustainable communities and opportunities for the future generations of the Arab world.
Nominations Takreem uses a strict framework for its candidate selection process with one single mandatory prerequisite: Arab ancestry, except forthe International Contribution to Arab Society category. This framework operates on an unbiased and non-discriminatory manner, giving equal rights to entry without regard to religion, gender, nationality, political beliefs or age. Once deemed eligible, candidates are classed in the most suitable category. Selection process Takreem established a comprehensive evaluation process to assess candidates, select the finalists and set the winners apart. The two-stage screening process involves a Selection Board and a Jury Board whose experienced and diligent members evaluate eligible applicants through pre-determined by-laws. The Selection Board drafts a short-list of candidates for the Jury Board to appraise and select a laureate for each of Takreem’s nine categories. The grading is classified and the identity of the laureates are only disclosed the night of the ceremony.
Award categories
Takreem presents each year an award in each of the nine following categories to one individual or institution:
