The Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam, has been recognized as one of the most influential people of African descent in the category of business and entrepreneurship at a colourful ceremony held in Addis Ababa on Feb. 09, 2019.

The most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) is a global civil society initiative in support of the United Nation’s International Decade for People of African Descent, recognizing high achievers in four categories namely Politics and Governance, Business and Entrepreneurship, Media & Culture and Religious and Humanitarian. While much has evolved in the industry, Ethiopian has stood the test of time and achieved most of its overarching goals, going halfway through its projected 15 year plan.

Ethiopian is now expanding its footprint to underserved global destinations and is serving global travelers with its signature Africa’s flavored Ethiopian hospitality onboard and in the air. True to form, the airline has also continued pushing the frontiers of aviation technology with the 21st century new generation fleet, among others.

Joining the airline thirty-plus years ago, Mr. Tewolde has passed through the laders to be at the helm and won a plethora of awards including African CEO of the Year, Best African Business Leader.

Other awards are The Airline Strategy Award for Regional Leadership, the 2015 International Grand Prix Special Award in Milan and the Most Gender Focused CEO Award 2015 by the Leading Women of Africa Group among others.