GEIC Award Not For Family, Friends – Kate Hassan

EVAG executives cutting cake in commemoration of the award launch

The leadership of the Event Vendors Association Ghana (EVAG), organisers of the annual Ghana Event Industry Conference (GEIC) awards, has refuted claims questioning the legitimacy of the award.

Over the years, some members of the association have been convinced that their inability to win certain categories may be due to the awards not being given to deserving individuals in the event sector. This has discouraged their work input in growing the industry.

These allegations did not sit well with the President of EVAG, Madam Kate Hassan, who asserted that members should dispute such information.

She emphasised that the awards were not designed to honour family and friends but hardworking industry persons who have stood the test of time amidst economic uncertainties.

“We hear complaints that some people deserve a certain award category but were not awarded because that individual is not friends with the leadership of the awarding board.

“GEIC awards, since its inception, have done nothing but award persons who have shown commitment to the work they do. Therefore, it is not a family and friend affair where we rob people of what they are due,” she said.

With nominations open for this year’s edition, Madam Kate encouraged businesses to nominate themselves and follow the laid down procedures to secure a nomination for the award.

“We have had instances where someone from somewhere nominates an organisation for a category based on the work they do. Unfortunately, the nominated firm, after being sent the nomination details for confirmation, will decline, saying they are not interested.

“Hence, there is a need to nominate themselves provided they fall in line with the demands of that category,” she advised.

Madam Kate made this known at the launch of the sixth edition of the GEIC awards last Thursday in Accra.

Nominations for this year’s edition are open from July 3 to August 3, 2024, with voting starting from September 4 to 30.

The organisers also announced that vetting for winners will take place from October 4 to 10. This will be followed by a welcome party on November 3 at the Enclave Gardens.

There will also be a two-day conference held at Underbridge, East Legon, from November 5 to 6 under the theme, ‘Technology Trends Shaping The Event Industry’.

The awards and gala night will be held on November 7 at a venue in Accra.

By Prince Fiifi Yorke