High-Level Takeaways from the ITFA 2024 Emerging Leader Award Presentation

One of the highlights of the 50th ITFA Annual Conference in Cyprus was, once again, the ITFA Emerging Leader Award. Now in its 6th year, the competition received entries from 13 Emerging Leaders from around the world. In August, the Award Jury faced the challenging task of selecting the projects for the final shortlist, with the finalists having the privilege of joining the ITFA Conference and presenting to the delegates in attendance.

High-Level Takeaways from the ITFA Emerging Leader Award Presentation:

1. Focus on Global Challenges:
   The shortlisted projects addressed some of the most pressing issues in global trade finance, from bridging the African trade finance gap to leveraging Export Credit Agencies (ECAs) in mitigating trade finance risks.
2. Innovation in Trade Finance:
   The winning project by Gregor Mihelac, Demystifying AI, underscored the growing importance of artificial intelligence in transforming trade finance. His work highlighted AI’s potential to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making within the industry.
3. Thought Leadership and Forward-Thinking:
   Each finalist demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the field of trade finance through innovative solutions and insightful analysis, reflecting the next generation of leadership within our industry.
4. Recognition of Excellence:
   The award not only celebrates individual achievement but also emphasises the importance of nurturing and recognising emerging talent in the trade finance sector.

A special thank you goes to Africa Global Trade Finance, who generously sponsored the ITFA Emerging Leader Award this year, as well as members of the trade finance community who helped to navigate the finalists on their chosen topics!

Please join us in celebrating the remarkable contributions of all the candidates and extending our congratulations to Gregor Mihelac for his outstanding achievement.

Until next year…!