Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte | Corporate Sustainability | Corporate Strategy Visionary Award

Corporate Strategy Visionary Award

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte
Affiliation Universidad Santo Tomás
Country Colombia
Documents 1
Subject Area Corporate Sustainability
Event Business Global Awards
ORCID 0009-0003-9946-2079

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte
Universidad Santo Tomás, Colombia

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte is a Colombian academic and higher education professional affiliated with Universidad Santo Tomás. His academic and professional profile demonstrates active engagement in corporate sustainability, higher education management, employability coordination, project leadership, and academic quality assurance processes. He has contributed to institutional development through academic coordination, research support, curriculum strengthening, and strategic management initiatives within Colombian higher education institutions.[1]

Abstract

The Corporate Strategy Visionary Award recognizes professionals and academic contributors who demonstrate strategic leadership, institutional innovation, and sustainable organizational development. Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte has established a professional profile centered on higher education leadership, project management, corporate sustainability, and academic quality enhancement within Colombian universities and educational institutions. His experience includes curriculum support, employability development, research coordination, and strategic academic administration.[1] Through his multidisciplinary academic background and institutional engagement, Aguillón Duarte has contributed to strengthening organizational processes aligned with sustainable development and educational excellence.[2]

Keywords

Corporate Sustainability; Strategic Leadership; Higher Education Management; Academic Administration; Project Management; Quality Assurance; Employability Development; Institutional Strategy; Business Innovation; Educational Research.

Introduction

Corporate sustainability and strategic leadership have become increasingly important within contemporary academic and organizational environments. Institutions now require professionals capable of integrating educational innovation, administrative effectiveness, and sustainable management practices to support long-term institutional growth.

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte has developed a professional trajectory that combines business administration, project management, higher education coordination, and institutional quality processes. His academic formation includes specialization in high management, postgraduate education in project management, and doctoral studies in education, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to strategic organizational development.[1]

His involvement in university employability systems, research guidance, academic program coordination, and curriculum support illustrates the integration of sustainability-oriented management practices with educational leadership. These activities align with broader institutional objectives associated with academic excellence and organizational adaptability.[2]

Research Profile

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte currently serves as a full-time faculty member at Universidad Santo Tomás in Bucaramanga, Colombia. His responsibilities include teaching, research support, curriculum assistance, project supervision, and academic leadership within higher education environments.[1]

His academic background includes doctoral studies in education at the Instituto Europeo de Posgrado México, a master’s degree in project management and direction, a specialization in senior management, and an undergraduate degree in business administration.[1] This educational trajectory reflects specialization in organizational leadership and institutional strategy.

Throughout his professional career, he has participated in institutional accreditation processes, self-evaluation systems, academic quality assurance, curriculum development, and employability initiatives. His work has involved collaboration with universities, technical institutes, and educational organizations across Colombia.[2]

  • Higher education management and academic coordination
  • Corporate sustainability and institutional strategy
  • Project management and organizational planning
  • Research guidance and curriculum development
  • Quality assurance and accreditation support

Research Contributions

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte has contributed to institutional strengthening through activities related to employability coordination, strategic academic planning, and organizational process improvement. His work has emphasized the integration of academic outcomes with professional development opportunities for students and graduates.[1]

Within higher education institutions, he has supported self-assessment processes, accreditation preparation, curriculum organization, and the development of new academic programs. These activities contribute to educational sustainability and institutional competitiveness in evolving academic environments.[2]

His experience in project management and academic coordination also demonstrates an applied understanding of organizational leadership and stakeholder engagement. Such competencies are particularly relevant within sustainability-oriented institutional frameworks where interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic planning are essential.

  • Support for academic quality assurance initiatives
  • Participation in institutional self-evaluation systems
  • Coordination of employability and professional practice programs
  • Leadership in curriculum and academic planning processes
  • Promotion of sustainable organizational improvement strategies

Publications

The available academic profile identifies an emerging research and professional portfolio connected to corporate sustainability, educational leadership, and project management. His academic participation supports institutional development initiatives within higher education systems.[1]

  1. Research and institutional contributions associated with academic quality assurance and project-oriented educational management.
  2. Professional engagement in higher education strategy, curriculum development, and employability coordination initiatives.

Research Impact

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte have contributed to institutional development through strategic academic coordination and sustainable educational management practices. His engagement in employability systems, academic advising, and institutional evaluation processes supports long-term organizational effectiveness within higher education environments.[2]

His multidisciplinary expertise combines business administration, educational leadership, and project management principles, allowing for integrated approaches to organizational problem-solving and institutional innovation. Such interdisciplinary competencies are increasingly significant in sustainability-focused educational frameworks.

Award Suitability

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte demonstrates characteristics aligned with the objectives of the Corporate Strategy Visionary Award. His professional experience reflects strategic institutional leadership, organizational coordination, and a commitment to sustainable educational development. His participation in accreditation processes, academic management, and employability systems indicates practical contributions to institutional transformation and quality enhancement.[1]

His background in project management and corporate administration further supports his relevance within discussions of strategic organizational sustainability and leadership innovation. The combination of academic coordination, educational research, and institutional planning demonstrates alignment with contemporary standards of visionary corporate and academic leadership.

Conclusion

Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte represents an emerging academic and institutional leader whose work integrates higher education management, strategic planning, project coordination, and sustainability-oriented organizational development. His contributions to curriculum support, employability systems, and institutional quality processes demonstrate a commitment to strengthening academic structures and organizational effectiveness.[2]

Within the context of the Business Global Awards, his profile reflects ongoing engagement with educational innovation, institutional sustainability, and corporate strategy development. These characteristics support his recognition within professional and academic leadership environments associated with the Corporate Strategy Visionary Award.

References

  1. Freddy Alonso Aguillón Duarte. (2026). Professional Curriculum Vitae and Academic Profile. Universidad Santo Tomás and associated institutional records.
    https://orcid.org/0009-0003-9946-2079
  2. Sustainability (2026). Construction and Validation of a 5P–ESG Composite Index for Sustainable Corporate Governance and Financial Analysis in Emerging Markets: Evidence from the MSCI COLCAP.
    https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/18/8/4065

Progress Hove-Sibanda | Sustainable Supply Chain Management | Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award

Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award

Progress Hove-Sibanda
Nelson Mandela University, South Africa
Progress Hove-Sibanda
Affiliation Nelson Mandela University
Country South Africa
Scopus ID 57222291361
Documents 11
Citations 53
h-index 5
Subject Area Sustainable Supply Chain Management
Event Business Global Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-1743-7711

Progress Hove-Sibanda of Nelson Mandela University has demonstrated substantial scholarly engagement in these areas through research, postgraduate supervision, interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributions to supply chain resilience and sustainability practices across Africa.[1] The Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award recognizes distinguished academic and professional leadership in the advancement of sustainable supply chain management, logistics innovation, humanitarian logistics, and strategic governance. Her work has contributed to academic discourse on sustainable logistics systems, reverse logistics, food security, and strategic transportation management in developing economies.[2]

Abstract

Progress Hove-Sibanda is a South African academic and logistics scholar specializing in sustainable supply chain management, humanitarian logistics, waste management, smart transportation systems, and food security. Her academic career has included senior leadership roles in higher education, postgraduate supervision, research mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration across African institutions.[1] Through scholarly publications and postgraduate research initiatives, she has contributed to discussions concerning supply chain resilience, sustainable logistics strategies, reverse logistics, and digital transformation in retail and logistics systems.[3] Her research profile and academic leadership align closely with the objectives of the Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award within the Business Global Awards framework.

Keywords

Sustainable Supply Chain Management; Logistics Innovation; Humanitarian Logistics; Reverse Logistics; Food Security; Smart Transportation; Strategic Governance; Supply Chain Resilience; Business Strategy; Waste Management.

Introduction

The contemporary business environment increasingly requires innovative approaches to supply chain governance, sustainable transportation systems, and resilient logistics strategies. Academic researchers who integrate strategic insight with practical implementation contribute significantly to the advancement of operational efficiency and sustainable development objectives.[4] Within this context, Progress Hove-Sibanda has established a research and academic leadership profile centered on sustainability-oriented logistics systems and strategic supply chain development across African economies.[1]

Her contributions span teaching, research supervision, academic governance, and scholarly publication activities. She has participated in interdisciplinary initiatives focused on logistics resilience, food supply chains, humanitarian operations, and reverse logistics practices. Such efforts have strengthened the theoretical and practical understanding of sustainable business systems and logistics strategy implementation.[2]

Research Profile

Progress Hove-Sibanda serves as a Full Professor at Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, where she contributes to teaching, postgraduate supervision, and research leadership in logistics and supply chain management disciplines.[1] Her academic qualifications include a Doctor of Technology in Business Management with specialization in Logistics from Vaal University of Technology, complemented by postgraduate qualifications in higher education and business management.[1]

Her research interests encompass sustainable supply chains, humanitarian logistics, food security systems, waste management strategies, governance frameworks, and smart transportation technologies. She has supervised numerous postgraduate candidates at master’s and doctoral levels across logistics, business management, and public management disciplines.[1]

In addition to academic teaching responsibilities, she has participated in institutional governance and research committees while also leading international scholarly initiatives through the Pan-African Institute on Logistics, Supply Chain, and Strategic Business (PASCL).

Research Contributions

Progress Hove-Sibanda’s scholarly contributions have focused on the intersection of sustainability, logistics innovation, and strategic supply chain governance. Her work on reverse logistics practices and competitive advantage among small and medium-sized enterprises has contributed to ongoing discussions concerning circular economy frameworks and sustainable business competitiveness.

She has also examined technological and digital transformation challenges affecting grocery retailers in South Africa, particularly within the context of supply chain risk management and operational resilience. These studies provide practical insight into how emerging technologies influence supply chain continuity and strategic adaptation in developing economies.

Additional research contributions include studies on sustainable food supply chain management and food security enhancement strategies. Her work has addressed sustainability-oriented logistics systems and governance mechanisms intended to strengthen long-term operational resilience and equitable resource distribution.

  • Research on sustainable and resilient supply chain systems.
  • Studies on reverse logistics and circular economy strategies.
  • Academic leadership in humanitarian logistics and food security research.
  • Supervision of postgraduate research in logistics and governance disciplines.
  • Contributions to smart transportation and digital supply chain discussions.

Publications

Progress Hove-Sibanda’s research profile include peer-reviewed journal articles focusing on sustainability, logistics competitiveness, and digital transformation within supply chain systems.

  • Hove-Sibanda, P., Bereng, K.C., & Igwe, P.A. (2025). The sustainability of reverse logistics practices as a source of competitive advantage for SMEs. European Journal of International Management.
  • Munuhwa, S., & Hove-Sibanda, P. (2024). Exploring sustainable food supply chain management practices to enhance food security. Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management.
  • Hove-Sibanda, P., Motshidisi, M., & Igwe, P.A. (2021). Supply chain risks, technological and digital challenges facing grocery retailers in South Africa. Journal of Enterprising Communities.

Research Impact

Progress Hove-Sibanda is reflected through her scholarly publication record, postgraduate supervision activities, and participation in regional academic initiatives.[1] Her Scopus-indexed profile includes multiple publications and citations within logistics and supply chain management research domains.

Her academic contributions have also extended to mentoring doctoral researchers, coordinating research projects, and facilitating international academic exchanges between universities in South Africa and Kenya. These collaborative initiatives contribute to regional capacity-building and the development of research-oriented logistics education across Africa.[1]

As an NRF Y2-rated researcher, she has demonstrated recognized scholarly potential and sustained academic engagement in advancing logistics and sustainability research themes.[1]

Award Suitability

The Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award recognizes leadership in strategic innovation, sustainability-oriented research, and transformative professional contributions. Hove-Sibanda’s research and academic activities align with these objectives through her sustained focus on sustainable supply chain systems, reverse logistics innovation, and resilient logistics governance frameworks.

Her interdisciplinary engagement across humanitarian logistics, food security, governance systems, and digital transformation reflects a broad strategic approach to addressing contemporary operational and societal challenges. Furthermore, her contributions to postgraduate supervision and academic mentorship demonstrate commitment to research development and institutional capacity-building within the logistics discipline.[1]

  1. Leadership in sustainable supply chain innovation.
  2. Strategic contributions to reverse logistics and food security systems.
  3. Extensive postgraduate supervision and mentorship.
  4. Regional and international academic collaboration initiatives.
  5. Research contributions addressing logistics resilience and governance.

Conclusion

Progress Hove-Sibanda has established a notable academic and research profile within the fields of logistics, sustainable supply chain management, and strategic governance. Her interdisciplinary research contributions, postgraduate supervision record, and academic leadership initiatives demonstrate a sustained commitment to advancing innovative and sustainability-oriented logistics systems.[1] Through scholarly engagement and regional collaboration, her work continues to contribute to the evolving discourse on resilient supply chains and strategic business transformation in Africa and beyond.

References

  1. Munuhwa, S., & Hove-Sibanda, P. (2024). Exploring sustainable food supply chain management practices to enhance food security. Journal of Transport and Supply Chain Management.
    https://journals.co.za/doi/abs/10.4102/jtscm.v18i0.1064
  2. Hove-Sibanda, P., Motshidisi, M., & Igwe, P.A. (2021). Supply chain risks, technological and digital challenges facing grocery retailers in South Africa. Journal of Enterprising Communities.
    https://www.emerald.com/jec/article-abstract/15/2/228/221556
  3. Makaleng, M.S.M., & Hove-Sibanda, P. (2022). Reverse logistics strategies and competitiveness of FMCG firms in South Africa. Logistics.
    https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6290/6/3/56
  4. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Progress Hove-Sibanda, Author ID 57222291361. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57222291361

Linda Weintraub | Sustainability Strategies | Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award

Ms. Linda Weintraub | Sustainability Strategies | Innovation and Strategy Trailblazer Award 

Linda Weintraub | Hartford University | United States 

Ms. Linda Weintraub is an influential author, curator, artist, educator, and homesteader whose work bridges contemporary art, ecology, and environmental ethics. With academic training in fine arts from Rutgers University, she has spent decades shaping the discourse around eco-art and sustainable creative practices. Her teaching career spans several distinguished institutions, where she inspired generations of artists through an environmentally conscious and interdisciplinary approach to art education. She has lectured and held academic appointments at colleges and universities across the United States, nurturing an understanding of art as a catalyst for ecological awareness and cultural transformation. Weintraub’s leadership in museum and curatorial practice has been equally significant. As director and curator at leading art centers and institutes, she organized numerous exhibitions that explored the intersection of art, nature, and sustainability. Her curatorial vision often foregrounds the material, ethical, and philosophical dimensions of artistic practice, inviting audiences to reflect on their relationship with the natural world. Through her exhibitions, she has elevated eco-art from a marginal concern to a central theme in contemporary artistic discourse. With a scholarly record of 10 publications, 98 citations across 96 documents, and an h-index of 2, Linda Weintraub’s contributions resonate across disciplines. Her lifelong commitment to integrating art with environmental consciousness has established her as a pioneering voice in contemporary eco-art, education, and curatorial practice—demonstrating that art, at its most transformative, is a dialogue with life itself. Beyond writing and curation, Weintraub is an active artist whose installations and participatory works embody her philosophy of ecological interdependence. Her art engages themes of consumption, decay, regeneration, and multispecies relationships, offering audiences immersive experiences that challenge conventional boundaries between human and non-human life. Through exhibitions and public lectures, she continues to inspire critical thought and creative action toward a more sustainable future.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications :

Weintraub, L. (1996). Art on the edge and over: Searching for art’s meaning in contemporary society (with A. Danto & T. McEvilley). Art Insights.

Weintraub, L. (2003). In the making: Creative options for contemporary art. D.A.P. / Thames & Hudson.

Weintraub, L. (2012). To life! Eco art in pursuit of a sustainable planet. University of California Press.

Weintraub, L. (2019). What’s next? Eco materialism & contemporary art. Intellect Books / University of Chicago Press.

Weintraub, L. (2024). Beyond death: Reflections on the afterlife. Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts.

Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Sustainability Strategies | Best Review Paper Award

Dr. Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Sustainability Strategies | Best Review Paper Award 

Ivona Gudac Hodanić | Expono d.o.o. | Croatia 

Ivona Gudac Hodanić is a Croatian civil engineer and researcher with extensive experience in architectural and construction project management. She has built a versatile career that bridges the technical, creative, and administrative dimensions of engineering practice. Currently serving as a Project Associate at EXPONO d.o.o., she contributes to architectural design development, technical documentation, and project coordination, ensuring compliance with building standards and regulations. Her role integrates multidisciplinary collaboration between architecture and construction, enhancing project functionality, aesthetics, and technical feasibility. Beyond design, she plays an important part in administrative operations, including bid preparation for public tenders, documentation management, and communication with investors and institutions. Earlier in her career, Ivona served as a teaching and research assistant at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Rijeka. Fluent in English and proficient in several other languages, she combines strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills with advanced technical proficiency in software tools such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Microsoft Office, and project management applications. With her balanced background in academia, research, and professional practice, Ivona contributes to advancing sustainable and efficient construction practices. Her scholarly record includes 2 indexed publications with 13 citations across 13 documents, reflecting her growing influence in the field. She holds an h-index of 2. Ivona holds a Doctor of Science degree from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, where her doctoral research focused on developing a model for assessing the lifecycle costs of pontoons to support marina management systems. She also earned a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Rijeka. Her additional professional training covers internal auditing, public procurement, project management, and leadership development.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications : 

Gudac, I., Marović, I., & Hanak, T. (2014). Sustainable optimization of winter road maintenance services under real-time information. Procedia Engineering, 85, 183–192.

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., & Gudac, I. (2010). You will be able to organize your own projects and programs in the future. Zbornik radova (Građevinski fakultet Sveučilišta u Rijeci), 13, 225–243.

Marović, I., Bošković, D., & Gudac, I. (2012). Process approach in modeling Croatian construction contract management practice. International Journal for Engineering Modeling, 25(1–4), 19–26.

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., & Gudac, I. (2014). Comparison of budget and PPP model in financing public structures in posttransition environment. In Proceedings of the International Scientific Conference “People, Buildings and Environment” (pp. 90–99).

Car-Pušić, D., Marović, I., Gudac, I., & Medvedec, D. (2015). Prioritization of public investment projects: Case study of GSC portfolio. In Proceedings of the 34th International Conference on Organization and Technology in Construction.

Rachana Lunawat | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Rachana Lunawat | Sustainability Strategies | Best Researcher Award 

Rachana Lunawat | Kingston University | United Kingdom 

Ms. Rachana Lunawat is an emerging scholar and finance professional with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in financial control, reporting, and sustainability-driven investment analysis. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance with Distinction from Kingston University, London, and a Master of Commerce from Savitribai Phule Pune University. Her academic and professional journey reflects a blend of analytical expertise and sustainability-oriented research. Having worked across the UK and India, Rachana has contributed to financial control, reconciliations, and audit preparedness in both public and private sectors, demonstrating her capability in enhancing reporting accuracy and operational efficiency. Her research interests lie at the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and corporate financial performance. She co-authored a peer-reviewed article titled “Integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors into the Investment Returns of American Companies,” published in MDPI’s international journal Sustainability. The study, indexed in Scopus and the Web of Science, employs panel data regression models using Bloomberg and Refinitiv datasets to assess how ESG engagement influences market valuation and long-term financial outcomes. This publication underscores her commitment to bridging sustainable finance and empirical financial analysis, offering insights that inform corporate strategy and responsible investment practices. Beyond research, Rachana has been actively involved in industry-oriented financial analysis projects, including portfolio optimization and ESG-financial performance evaluation of S&P 500 firms. These projects reflect her ability to translate academic concepts into data-driven decision-making relevant to global markets. Her collaborations with scholars from the University of St Andrews and Aston Business School have further enriched her interdisciplinary perspective on corporate sustainability and financial performance dynamics.

Profiles : ORCID | Linked In

Featured Publication : 

Lunawat, R. M., Elmarzouky, M., & Shohaieb, D. (2025). Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into the investment returns of American companies. Sustainability, 17(19), 8522.

Adel Alshammari | Sustainability Strategies | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Adel Alshammari | Sustainability Strategies | Best Scholar Award

Professor at University of Hafr Albatin | Saudi Arabia 

Prof. Dr. Adel AlShammari is a distinguished Saudi academic and researcher specializing in Educational Administration, with a focus on higher education leadership, governance, and institutional excellence. He serves as a Professor of Educational Administration at the University of Hafr Al-Batin, where he has also held several senior academic and administrative positions, including Vice-Rector for Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research, Dean of Library Affairs, and Head of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Hafr Al-Batin University – Educational and Psychological Sciences and the Executive Director of the Saudi Association for Education and Psychology (GESTEN) at the university. According to Google Scholar metrics, he has 22 citations, an h-index of 3, and an i10-index of 0, reflecting his growing impact in academic and professional circles. Prof. Al-Shammari holds advanced academic qualifications in education, including a doctorate in Educational Administration from Yarmouk University in Jordan, a master’s degree in Curriculum Development, and earlier degrees in education and Islamic studies. His career demonstrates a strong blend of academic leadership, administrative expertise, and scholarly contribution. Over the years, he has been actively involved in various university councils and committees, overseeing scientific, academic, and strategic development initiatives, as well as institutional accreditation processes. Recognized as a peer reviewer for several leading Saudi and regional universities, Prof. Al-Shammari continues to contribute to the academic community through his editorial work, scholarly research, and leadership roles. His commitment to advancing education and promoting institutional excellence underscores his influence as a key figure in the field of educational administration in Saudi Arabia.

Profiles : Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | ResearchGate | Linked In 

Featured Publications : 

Alshammari, A. (2017). The university administration challenges in emerging Saudi universities and ways of confrontation it. Journal of the College of Education in Educational Sciences, 41(2), 61–117.

Alshammari, A. (2024). Strategic planning and institutional excellence in educational institutions: Reality, correlation, and impact. Management Research and Practice, 16(2), 16.

Alshammari, A. (2018). Reality of Saudi universities governance and their role in achieving the Kingdom Vision 2030. Journal of Educational Sciences, 30(3), 369–397.

Alharbi, A. M., Alshammari, A. A., & Naqvi, H. A. (2022). The gap between the perceptions and expectations of quality of services delivered to the participants at the scientific conferences using the University of Hafr Al-Batin as a model. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 909489.

Alshammari, A. A., & Alshammari, N. H. M. (2024). Job burnout among female teachers in Saudi primary schools. MIER Journal of Educational Studies, Trends and Practices, 383–409.

Adil Zareef Khan | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan | Chung Yuan Christian university | Taiwan

Mr. Adil Zareef Khan is a motivated and research-oriented professional currently pursuing a PhD in International Trade and Economics at Chung Yuan Christian University in Taiwan. With a strong academic foundation in commerce and project management, he has developed expertise in areas such as risk management, financial management, procurement, human resource management, quality management, and supply chain decision-making. His research interests lie at the intersection of leadership, project innovativeness, organizational behavior, and international trade policies, with several publications focusing on spiritual, ethical, servant, and inclusive leadership and their influence on project success, creativity, and team cohesion. In addition, he has contributed research examining the global impact of trade policies, including tariff dynamics. Alongside his academic journey, he has worked as a research assistant in the field of international trade and economics, gaining experience in research coordination, data handling, and scholarly writing. His professional career also includes serving as a law officer, where he dealt with legal suits, advised decision-makers, and managed human resources, as well as teaching as a visiting lecturer at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He has participated in international research conferences and has been recognized with scholarships and research assistantships for academic excellence. Beyond his academic and professional roles, he has honed skills in office administration, project coordination, document management, business communication, and legal and compliance insight, supported by certifications in project management and human resources from international institutions.

Featured Publications : 

Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C. W. (2025). The impact of Trump’s tariff policies on global trade dynamics: A case study of major US trade partners. International Journal of Business and Economic Affairs, 10(1), 62–71.

Lee, C. W., & Khan, A. Z. (2024). Ethical leadership and servant leadership on team creativity: Task interdependencies as a moderating role. International Journal of Business and Economic Affairs, 9(3), 69–80.

Khan, A. Z., & Lee, C. W. (2025). Exploring leadership’s role in sustainable development: The moderating impact of community involvement in SMEs across Pakistan, India, and Taiwan. Sustainability, 17(16), 7384.

Lee, C. W., Khan, A. Z., & Liu, P. T. (2025). CSR and job satisfaction in Pakistan’s construction sector: The roles of organizational commitment and perceived support. Human Resources Management and Services, 7(2), 4446–4446.

Javed, A., Ibrahim, M. Y., Ngah, A. H., Zafar, M. J., Hammad, M., Khan, A. Z., & Mir, F. (2025). Impact of inclusive leadership on project success—with mediating role of organizational commitment and top management support as moderator: A systematic literature review. Multidisciplinary Reviews, 8(8), 2025250–2025250.

Rahul Kumar | Business Ethics| Best Scholar Award

Mr. Rahul Kumar | Business Ethics | Best Scholar Award 

PhD Scholar at Indian Institute of Management | India 

Rahul Kumar is a strategist and sustainability expert with extensive experience in entrepreneurship, program management, and startup ecosystems. He holds a doctoral degree in strategic management and entrepreneurship and a master’s degree in environmental science and resource management. Over the years, he has worked with diverse organizations, including media platforms, sustainability consultancies, and industrial corporations, contributing to content strategy, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable business practices. His expertise spans market research, data analysis, ESG materiality assessment, and communication strategies, helping organizations align sustainability goals with business and regulatory needs. Rahul has authored and co-authored several research papers on sustainability, CSR, ESG, and carbon markets, which have been presented at international conferences and are under review in peer-reviewed journals. He has been a judge and reviewer for various academic and industry platforms and has contributed thought leadership articles to sustainability-focused publications. With a robust research portfolio of 355 citations by 307 documents, an h-index of 11, and authorship across 43 documents, he continues to drive knowledge advancement in sustainability and strategic management while building collaborative partnerships and innovative solutions for a greener future. His work reflects a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, effective communication, and transformative leadership across sectors.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications:   

Kumar, R. (2025). Which ownership structure will sustain sustainability? An empirical examination of ESG disclosure. International Journal of Disclosure and Governance.

Kumar, R. (2025). Beyond greenwashing: How politics shapes firms’ ESG strategies and their financial fortunes. European Business Review.

Kumar, R. (2025). Metaverse advertising and promotional effectiveness: The route from immersion to joy. Decision Support Systems.

Qinyuan Zhang | Supply Chain Management | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Qinyuan Zhang | Supply Chain Management | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Qinyuan Zhang, City university of Macau, China.

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan is an emerging scholar and practitioner in the field of Green Supply Chain Management, currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration at the City University of Macau. With a strong academic foundation and international exposure, Zhang brings a unique blend of theoretical insights and practical expertise in sustainable operations, corporate responsibility, and digital transformation. Her academic journey has taken her through prestigious institutions like RMIT University in Australia and Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in China, with notable research collaborations and project experiences across Taiwan and Mainland China. Zhang is recognized for her analytical thinking, proficiency in advanced methodologies such as fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), and dedication to driving environmental accountability in business processes. She contributes actively as a teaching assistant and researcher, with multiple high-impact journal submissions already under her belt 📘🌍.

👩‍🎓 Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr.  Zhang Qinyuan’s academic pathway exemplifies a steadfast commitment to business innovation and sustainable enterprise. She is currently completing her Doctor of Business Administration (2022–2025) at the City University of Macau, where her research focuses on green supply chains and corporate responsibility. Prior to this, she earned a Master’s in Project Management from RMIT University, Australia (2019–2021), gaining expertise in international project delivery and risk optimization. Her undergraduate studies were in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation (2014–2018) at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, grounding her in engineering fundamentals. Additionally, Zhang expanded her global perspective as an exchange student at National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan (2015–2016), and through the Zhejiang University International Program (2021). 📚🌏

 Experience 🧑‍💼

Dr. Zhang’s professional and academic experiences reveal her evolution as a capable leader in research and consulting. She served as a teaching assistant in Management Consulting Systems (2023–2024) and Operations Management (2024–2025) at the City University of Macau, facilitating coursework and mentoring peers. She actively contributes to the Macao Foundation-funded project on green supply chains in the hospitality sector of the Greater Bay Area, handling data analysis and report drafting. Her project history includes academic exchanges with Zhejiang University and hands-on training in various analytical tools. Zhang’s research involvement demonstrates a balance of conceptual strength and technical skills in QCA, policy evaluation, and sustainability metrics, equipping her to support both academic and industry initiatives. 💼📊

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Zhang’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainability, business transformation, and policy analysis. She is particularly focused on Green Supply Chain Management, exploring its driving factors across industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, and automotive sectors. Her work also delves into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the digital transformation of enterprises, reflecting a systems-based perspective on organizational change. Using qualitative and quantitative tools like QCA, SPSS, and Nvivo, Zhang bridges theoretical rigor with practical application. Her methodological fluency enables her to model cross-case dynamics and identify pathways to sustainable innovation. Zhang’s vision is to advance academic frameworks that empower businesses to reduce ecological footprints while maximizing stakeholder value. 🌱🔍

Awards and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan has already gained recognition through competitive research project funding from the Macao Foundation (MF2309). Her role in the funded study — investigating green supply chain implementation in the hospitality industry — positions her as a promising researcher in environmental business studies. She has also been selected for academic exchange programs in Taiwan and at Zhejiang University, reflecting her cross-border collaboration potential. Her contributions to scholarly writing and peer-reviewed publications under top-tier supervision further establish her as a future thought leader. Zhang is poised to earn recognition through upcoming journal publications, thanks to her consistent record of excellence and strong mentorship. 🏅📈

Publication Top Notes 📚

Multi-factor Driving Paths of Green Supply Chain Management Implementation in Leading Manufacturers: A Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis

Exploring the Driving Factors for the Implementation of Green Supply Chain Management in the Hotel Industry

Simulation Analysis of “Old for New” Remanufacturing Closed-loop Supply Chain under Dual Uncertainties


Exploring the Co-evolution Mechanism of Green Supply Chain Management Implementation: A Multi-driver Perspective

How to Improve the Sustainability of End-of-life Vehicles (ELVs): Exploring Extended Producer Responsibility in the Chinese Automobile Industry

Conclusion

Dr. Zhang Qinyuan exemplifies the next generation of scholars committed to sustainable industrial transformation. With a strong interdisciplinary foundation and rigorous methodological training, she has developed a focused research agenda addressing pressing global issues like environmental responsibility, supply chain greening, and enterprise innovation. Her commitment to cross-sectoral analysis and data-driven inquiry stands out, as does her collaboration with top-tier supervisors and institutions. Her research is timely, impactful, and aligned with policy and industry needs. Zhang’s growing portfolio of SSCI-indexed journal submissions, along with her proactive role in funded research, make her a promising candidate for academic distinction and awards in sustainability and business innovation. 🌐🌟

Gholamreza Mansourfar | Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Gholamreza Mansourfar | Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Gholamreza Mansourfar, Urmia university, Iran.

Dr. Gholamreza Mansourfar is an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Accounting and Financial Management at Urmia University. With a doctoral degree in Finance from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), earned in 2010, Dr. Mansourfar has been an active faculty member since 1999, playing pivotal roles in both academia and public sector management. His robust experience spans across academic leadership, financial reform, public policy, and technology-based enterprise development. Known for his expertise in financial theory, econometrics, and investment management, he has led several national-level research and implementation projects, including the transition to accrual accounting in higher education and strategic regional development studies. Alongside his university roles, he has served on executive boards and strategic councils in the Maku Free Trade Zone, Science and Technology Parks, and investment bodies. Dr. Mansourfar’s work integrates academic excellence with impactful economic development, making him a deserving nominee for prestigious recognition in research and policy innovation.

👨‍🏫 Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Mansourfar pursued his Ph.D. in Finance from the School of Graduate Management, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and graduated in 2010. His doctoral research was centered on portfolio diversification and financial optimization in oil and non-oil producing economies, which laid the foundation for his later high-impact publications. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in financial and business-related disciplines, providing him with both theoretical and applied grounding in the field. His academic background reflects a deep commitment to financial sciences, especially international portfolio management and quantitative economics. Through his education, Dr. Mansourfar has mastered advanced financial theories, econometric modeling, and asset allocation strategies, which he applies in both his teaching and his prolific research. His doctoral dissertation evolved into several indexed publications, significantly contributing to MENA region investment research.

🧰 Experience

Dr. Mansourfar’s academic and executive career spans over two decades, beginning in 1999 as a faculty member at Urmia University. His roles have included Associate Professor, internal audit committee chair, and Deputy of Budget and Finance. Beyond academia, he has held high-ranking positions in national institutions—serving as CEO and board member for multiple science and technology enterprises, including the Maku Free Trade Zone. His leadership includes serving as Vice President of Management Development and member of the Supreme Investment Council of Urmia Municipality. He has also chaired the West Azerbaijan Research and Technology Fund and served as Director of the Province’s Science & Technology Park. His administrative excellence is reflected in roles such as Deputy of Finance and Administration (2003–2006) and Program & Budget Director (2012–2021) at Urmia University. His multidisciplinary leadership ensures strategic integration of academia, technology, and economic planning.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Mansourfar’s primary research interests include international portfolio diversification, financial econometrics, metaheuristic optimization, financial decision analysis, and Islamic finance. His scholarly trajectory focuses on how financial theory can be enhanced through quantitative tools such as genetic algorithms and wavelet coherence. His research also delves into industry-level risk analysis within emerging and oil-based economies, especially in the MENA and South-East Asian regions. He has pioneered applications of metaheuristics in optimal portfolio selection, delivering policy-relevant insights for investors in volatile markets. Moreover, Dr. Mansourfar explores how financial markets in Iran and similar regions can benefit from enhanced diversification strategies. His work is both theoretical and applied, often translating into development initiatives and public-sector reforms. This alignment between academic inquiry and national development makes his research highly valuable across academia, government, and industry.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Gholamreza Mansourfar has earned widespread respect for his academic and executive leadership across Iran. He has been appointed to numerous high-level governmental and institutional committees, including the Permanent Commission of the Board of Trustees at Urmia University, and served as Chair of the Scientific Committee for the West Azerbaijan Strategic Development Plan. Though not focused on accolades, his work has brought institutional reform and has been cited by global scholars in financial economics and development studies. His research on international diversification in MENA and Islamic finance has been widely referenced, helping policymakers and researchers alike. Through his leadership in the Higher Education Planning Committees, his impact is evident in university curriculum modernization and institutional restructuring. His dedication to advancing financial knowledge, governance reform, and economic development positions him as an ideal nominee for national and international academic awards.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Stock price prediction using DEEP learning algorithm and its comparison with machine learning algorithms

Stock price prediction using deep learning and frequency decomposition

Did corporate social responsibility vaccinate corporations against COVID-19?

Business sustainability performance and corporate financial performance: The mediating role of optimal investment

Financial leverage, debt maturity, future financing constraints and future investment

The ability of support vector machine (SVM) in financial distress prediction

Information content of Islamic private debt announcement: Evidence from Malaysia

Earning volatility, capital structure decisions and financial distress by SEM

Optimum portfolio selection using a hybrid genetic algorithm and analytic hierarchy process

The behavior of MENA oil and non-oil producing countries in international portfolio optimization