The Knights of Rizal Qatar Chapter has partnered with the Filipino Institute and The Global Filipino Magazine to introduce the Rizal Awards Middle East 2024, a pioneering event celebrating the exceptional contributions of Filipinos across the Middle East. Set to take place in Doha, Qatar, this initiative aims to highlight individuals and organizations that embody the principles championed by Dr. Jose Rizal: patriotism, leadership, excellence, and service.
As the first event of its kind in the region, the Rizal Awards Middle East 2024 seeks to foster unity within the Filipino community and recognize their remarkable achievements across multiple sectors. Whether through education, business, cultural preservation, or community service, this event is dedicated to showcasing outstanding Filipino efforts that reflect Rizalian values.
Collaborative efforts
The Filipino Institute, known for empowering Filipinos through educational programs and skill development, and The Global Filipino Magazine, which celebrates the accomplishments of Filipinos worldwide, play significant roles in making this event a reality. Their collaboration ensures that the stories of Filipino resilience and achievement reach a broad audience and inspire pride in the community.
Award categories
The awards cover a diverse range of categories:
Individual awards:
- Outstanding Filipino Professional Award
- Outstanding Filipino Educator Award
- Outstanding Filipino Entrepreneur Award
- Outstanding Filipino Health Professional Award
- Outstanding Filipino Youth Leader Award (Ages 18–30)
- Outstanding Filipino Artist and Cultural Advocate Award
- Outstanding Overseas Worker Award
- Outstanding Filipino Media Practitioner Award
- Rizalian Patriotism Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
Group and organizational awards:
- Outstanding Filipino Organization Award
- Outstanding Community Service Award
- Outstanding Sports Organization Award
- Outstanding Cultural Advocacy Award
- Outstanding Filipino Business Enterprise Award
Special recognition awards:
- Rizal Leadership Excellence Award
- Rizal Humanitarian Service Award
- Rizal Legacy Award
- Nomination Process
Eligibility criteria require nominees to be of Filipino descent and residing in the Middle East, with organizations needing to be Filipino-led or significantly beneficial to the Filipino community. The nomination packet should include personal or organizational details, a comprehensive nomination statement, supporting documents, and a high-resolution photo for publication. Submissions must be sent via email to commander@korqatar.org by December 15, 2024.
Judging and ceremony details
A panel comprising Philippine Embassy representatives, community leaders, and industry experts will assess nominations based on their impact, excellence, community involvement, and alignment with Rizalian values. The winners will be honored at a grand ceremony on January 30, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, featuring a formal dinner, cultural performances, and the unveiling of the Rizal Awards Souvenir Magazine.
Sponsorship opportunities
Businesses and organizations are invited to support this milestone event through sponsorships that offer brand exposure across various event materials, social media, and the official souvenir magazine.
For further inquiries, nominations, and sponsorship details, interested parties can contact the Knights of Rizal Qatar Chapter at commander@korqatar.org or via WhatsApp at +971544550355.
