An Interview with Seatrade Maritime Awards Judge Fazel A. Fazelbhoy

How important do you think it is that our industry recognises excellence? And how does that process help?

I think it's vitally important that our industry recognises excellence and there are two aspects to this.

Firstly, when a Company is being recognised, it is a tremendous morale booster for all the stakeholders and it shows to their existing and potential customers that they are the right ones to be doing business with.

Secondly, for the industry at large, to identify the leaders in the field and what does it take to achieve such excellence.

As a previous judge, what do you enjoy most about being in the panel and what’s important to you in the process?

It is very interesting to see how new ideas and developments are being projected. The creativity amongst the entrants is phenomenal and usually there is a wide range of attributes that are encompassed in each category. However, its hugely important for the judges to remain focused on the Awards criteria and to ensure that the successful applicants have adhered to the category guidelines. 

The purpose of the awards is to provide a platform for the industry to showcase excellence. Having judged the Seatrade Maritime Awards before, what advice would you give to entrants when compiling their entries?

Most importantly read, re-read and adhere to the Award category criteria! Provide demonstratable facts or statistics that substantiate any claim of success. Wherever possible, ensure that there are third party testimonials to verify accomplishments. Entrants that can demonstrate a broad impact are always given additional recognition. Ensure that the submission is based on provable results and not on promises of intended successes – a track record is important.

Awards don’t win themselves – any accomplishment must be written up well so that its achievements can be appreciated by the judging panel.

What three things would you say to someone who was dubious of entering their project for an award to convince them to do so?

•  If you believe that what you have accomplished is truly worthwhile, then be brave and have faith in your accomplishments and put your best foot forward.
• Work as hard on the submission of your successful achievement as you did for the achievement itself. Your submission is all that the Judges can see!
• Be concise and stay within the submission guidelines and highlight what is truly remarkable in what you and your team have accomplished.  Be truthful and sincere to your achievement; do not needlessly embellish or overstate your accomplishments.  

Even though the spotlight is on the award winners and finalists, the night is also about celebrating everyone’s hard work within the industry. As a past attendee, how you would describe your experience at the Seatrade Maritime Awards ceremony?

It is an incredible networking opportunity. You get the chance to meet your customers, suppliers, competitors and friends in an elegant and social
atmosphere. It provides a genuine “feel good” vibe and you can not only see but also sense that everyone around you is smiling!  Nothing succeeds like success and at the Seatrade Maritime Awards ceremony, you are surrounded by successes! A great opportunity  to enhance your own business success!