Takreem () is a non-profit organization founded in 2009 by Ricardo Karam to recognize Arab individuals or organizations for their contributions to their communities and achievements in culture, education, science, environmental studies, humanitarian services, and socio-economic development.
The idea of Takreem was first introduced by Ricardo Karam in 2004, yet the actual foundation was only launched in 2009. Karam observed guests he had interviewed on his talk show and noted the need for greater recognition of Arab achievers. In one of his interviews, he states: âÂÂâ¦every year we try to spot different achievers from different fields, and we try to give hope to the youth by telling [them to] look at these examples. You can make it as well."
Karam officially announced the launching of Takreem at a press conference held at ÃÂcole supérieure des affaires (ESA), Beirut.
Takreem organizes conferences, symposiums, and meetings. It offers mentorships and holds an annual Awards Ceremony celebrated in a different city every year. By showcasing achievements from the Arab world, the foundation seeks to address stereotypes about the region and promotes creativity, freedom of thought, human rights, entrepreneurship, advanced technology, and gender equality.
In 2018, Takreem launched TAKminds, an interdisciplinary think-tank bringing together thought-leaders, change-makers, and professionals.
In 2019, Takreem decided to expand its activities to reach the Arab diasporas in both Americas. Takreem America was launched in 2022.
In 2023, Takreem organized the "Shining Stars of Hope" Christmas Special, a fundraising event that gathered significant attention and support for struggling Lebanese artists. This initiative raised substantial funds, which were channeled towards providing essential assistance and opportunities to artists facing challenges in the Lebanese creative industry.
Takreem organizes activities such as conferences, panel discussions, talks, and forums, in addition to its annual awards ceremony. These activities host speakers from different parts of the world who share their insights on important issues drawing on their life experiences and careers.
TAKminds offers a platform for Arab professionals to connect, collaborate, and explore ways to create sustainable communities and opportunities for youth.
Nominations:
Takreem uses a strict framework for its candidate selection process with one single mandatory prerequisite: Arab ancestry, except for one: the International Contribution to Arab Society category. This framework operates in 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 an evaluation process to assess candidates, select finalists, and determine the winners. 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 is only disclosed on the night of the ceremony.
Takreem presents annual awards in nine categories to individuals or institutions.
Takreem recognizes individuals through three honorary distinctions:
Takreem established a comprehensive evaluation process to assess candidates, select the finalists, and set the winners apart. The two-stage screening process involves a Nomination Board and a Jury Board whose experienced and diligent members evaluate eligible applicants through pre-determined by-laws.
In the first phase, the Nomination Board identifies candidates deserving of the TAKREEM awards. These candidates are then screened by a committee of experts, which shortlists the finalists for each category.
In the second stage, the Jury Board convenes, deliberates, and selects a laureate for each of Takreem's nine categories. The grading is kept confidential, and the identities of the laureates are revealed only on the night of the ceremony. Throughout this process, the TAKREEM team acts solely as advisors and does not participate in the evaluation process.
On 9th May 2024, under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, this flagship event, themed âÂÂArt for a Cause,â brought together personalities from around the world to promote cultural exchange and support essential humanitarian causes.
The evening featured international performance by Bachar Mar-Khalifa, Additionally, honours were given to each of Samia Halabi, Abdil Hamied Ahmed Seddiqi and the late Iskandar Safa
In 2019, Takreem established a branch in the United States, Takreem America, also known as Takreem USA.