MIAMI — Now owned by Toronto-based Brunico Communications after the COVID-19 pandemic left its former steward in fiscal shambles, NATPE Global has worked hard to reestablish itself as “North America’s premier content marketplace” by taking a decidedly Latin American and EMEA approach to its programming.
Now, NATPE Global has put its plans in motion to create a “NATPE Honors Awards Gala,” described as “a new celebration recognizing trailblazing individuals whose creativity and visionary leadership are reshaping the entertainment industry.”
Hosted by Entertainment Tonight anchor Nischelle Turner, the gala is scheduled for February 5, 2025, as part of the NATPE Global conference at the InterContinental Miami.
“Following in the footsteps of the longstanding Brandon Tartikoff Awards, the NATPE Honors were created to celebrate the people who are pushing boundaries,” says Mary Maddever, NATPE Executive Content Director and EVP of Realscreen. “Each year, we’ll recognize individuals who not only challenge the status quo but also inspire change through their creative work and business leadership.”
NATPE Global Executive Director Claire MacDonald added that the honorees “inspire us with their bold ideas and unwavering commitment to excellence, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their contributions at our inaugural gala in Miami.”
The inaugural NATPE Honors awardees include:
North Star Award: Recognizes career achievements of individuals whose strong leadership has had a bar-raising impact, providing guidance as the industry navigates change.
- PAUL BUCCIERI (President/Chairman, A+E Networks Group)
- LUIS FERNÁNDEZ (Chairman, NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises)
Shift Disturber Award: Honors individuals whose bold ideas and leadership are driving transformative change.
- KELLY DAY (Vice President International, Prime Video)
- SHONDALAND / Betsy Beers
New Establishment Award: Celebrates emerging leaders whose new ideas and creative endeavors are shaking things up and charting a new path.
- BRIAN TANNENBAUM (Head of Originals, Roku Media)
Cause + Action Award: Celebrates a purpose-led champion of change for their social good impact.
- RI-KARLO HANDY (CEO & Founder, HANDY FOUNDATION)
