12 August, Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Review, the capital’s go-to source for local news and events, has unveiled the ADR Community Champions Awards 2025 – a new annual celebration dedicated to recognising individuals, groups, and organisations whose work is creating a lasting impact on the city’s communities.
Planned for Q4 this year, the awards will feature ten categories covering areas such as youth empowerment, environmental responsibility, cultural heritage, health, and wellness. More than 100 attendees are expected to join this celebration of Abu Dhabi’s most committed changemakers.
The initiative is the vision of Asha Sherwood, CEO of Abu Dhabi Review and a pioneer in local media. For over a decade, she has championed community stories that highlight the diversity and shared values of Abu Dhabi’s people.
The awards will serve as an extension of this mission, offering a platform for recognition that aligns with the UAE’s Year of Community.
Asha says, “These awards are a celebration of the people who make the capital extraordinary. In the spirit of the UAE’s Year of Community, we’re honouring those who uplift others, nurture belonging, and help co-create our shared future.”
From grassroots leaders to everyday citizens, the programme seeks to highlight the people who consistently give their time and effort to improve the lives of others.

“Abu Dhabi is home to countless unsung heroes who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to making a difference,” Asha continues. “Through the Community Champions Awards, we want to celebrate these incredible people and inspire others to join them in creating positive change. Being so deeply integrated into the community has allowed us to build strong, lasting relationships with our audience. It’s earned us the privilege of becoming a trusted voice in the capital, and now we have the opportunity to give back and say thank you.”
Entries will open eight to ten weeks ahead of the ceremony, with a diverse panel of judges reviewing submissions. Winners will be announced during a celebratory evening of recognition and networking, and shortlisted nominees will be profiled extensively across ADR’s channels.
The event also invites sponsorship from companies wishing to align their brand with a meaningful community initiative.
Award categories:
- Outstanding Community Service Award
- Youth Empowerment Award
- Volunteer Excellence Award
- Cultural Heritage & Arts Award
- Environmental Sustainability Award
- Innovation in Community Engagement Award
- Social Inclusion & Diversity Award
- Health & Wellness Award
- Educational Impact Award
Contact: hello@abudhabireview.com for details.