Prestigious Global Awards 3rd Edition

The 3rd Edition of the Prestigious Global Awards, held at Kannusali in Espoo, Finland, was a landmark international gathering that celebrated leadership, diplomacy, entrepreneurship, innovation, and multicultural collaboration between Africa, the Nordic region, and the global diaspora. Organized by  Ceci Educare Oy, the event took place on 22nd September 2025 as part of the combined Nordic–Africa Business Forum and Prestigious Global Awards platform.  

The 3rd Edition brought together diplomats, government representatives, royalty, entrepreneurs, investors, academics, creatives, and business leaders from across Africa, Europe, and beyond. Hosted in partnership with the City of Espoo, the event served as a platform for strengthening international cooperation, diaspora engagement, sustainable development, and business diplomacy.   

One of the major highlights of the event was the presence of distinguished international dignitaries, including Olusegun Obasanjo, who was represented as Distinguished Special Guest of Honour, and Ousainou Darboe, who delivered a keynote address on “Legacy of Change: From Vision to Lasting Impact.”  

The event also welcomed Nigerian royalty led by Oba Saka Adelola Matemilola, whose royal entourage added cultural prestige and international significance to the ceremony. Traditional Yoruba cultural performances, royal processions, and multicultural showcases formed an important part of the celebration, highlighting African heritage within the Nordic region.  

The day began with the Nordic–Africa Business Forum, featuring panel discussions on immigrant-led businesses, Nordic–African partnerships, investment opportunities, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable trade between Finland and Africa. Speakers and panelists included business leaders, academics, diplomats, startup founders, and experts from Finland, Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea, and other countries.  

The Grand Award Ceremony recognized outstanding global changemakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, leaders, and organizations whose work has created meaningful impact in society. Awards were presented to individuals contributing to diplomacy, leadership, business excellence, innovation, youth empowerment, humanitarian service, and international cooperation. The event further reinforced the mission of “Changing the Narratives and Celebrating Change Makers.”   

In addition to the awards presentation, the event featured B2B networking sessions, exhibitions, fashion showcases, live performances, cultural entertainment, and media engagements. Guests also participated in networking luncheons and partnership discussions aimed at building stronger business and cultural ties between Africa and the Nordic countries.  

Founded by Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie, the Prestigious Global Awards has continued to grow into an influential international platform promoting multicultural dialogue, global leadership, entrepreneurship, and diaspora collaboration. The 3rd Edition at Kannusali marked one of the most internationally recognized editions of the awards so far, further positioning Finland as a growing hub for international diplomacy, culture, and global business engagement.