Our certification honors global heroes reshaping technology – Oladejo

Qazeem Oladejo, the founder of The Connected Awards, a global body honouring visionary leaders and trailblasers in digital technology whose work transforms industries and communities has said its certification is reserved for those whose achievements redefine the landscape of technology and drive real-world progress.

“Becoming a Global Tech Hero is not just a recognition, it is a journey marked by merit, impact, and dedication to advancing technology. Each application undergoes a stringent evaluation process guided by four pillars: innovation, influence, leadership, and contribution to global progress,” he said.

The Connected Awards has recognised 180 professionals as Global Tech Heroes, honoring individuals for their transformative contributions to the technology sector. The certification, established by The Connected Awards, highlights the work of those who have made lasting impacts across industries and communities.

Since its inception, the awards have received over 3,000 applications globally, with only a small fraction achieving certification.

The first step involves meticulously reviewing the applicant’s professional milestones, technical expertise, and tangible contributions to their field. The vetting process includes peer and mentor endorsements, ensuring that only those with verifiable accomplishments progress. This stage reflects the collaborative spirit of our community and reinforces the peer-driven validation that underpins the credibility of the certification.

Next, our panel of judges, industry experts with decades of experience, delves deeply into the applicant’s portfolio, assessing measurable impacts on industries, transformative leadership, and innovation. From revolutionizing cybersecurity frameworks to enabling inclusivity through technology, certified Global Tech Heroes embody solutions that go beyond theoretical value, they deliver results with global resonance.

“Our rigorous process ensures that every honouree stands as a benchmark of excellence, advancing the collective potential of technology,” Oladejo explains. “We do not settle for mediocrity or fleeting impact; this award is about immortalizing those whose contributions resonate across time and geographies.”

Certified Global Tech Heroes have driven transformative impact in areas such as health, education, finance, climate change, and equity. Whether leveraging technology to revolutionize underserved healthcare systems or creating platforms that enhance digital accessibility for marginalised communities, their work embodies a harmonious blend of technology and humanity.

As Oladejo proudly notes: “These are not just certifications; these are proclamations of lives and systems changed. Our Global Tech Heroes create solutions that spark systemic transformations while inspiring millions of people across the world.”

The Connected Awards has set an unparalleled standard, earning accolades from industry leaders, governments, and academic institutions for its rigorous commitment to authenticity and excellence. While many awards programs compromise their credibility by diluting criteria, The Connected Awards remains steadfast in its philosophy of “quality over quantity.”

“We’ve heard it over and over again from our audience: we are praised for getting it right,” says Qazeem Oladejo. “People respect and appreciate that we never cut corners, that every recipient we name has risen through the crucible of genuine, tested merit. This is what makes us a global benchmark for recognizing the best of the best.”

The Connected Awards’ vision extends beyond simply celebrating individual brilliance, it fosters a global movement towards technological excellence and societal progress. Through our deliberate, peer-validated, and global approach to recognition, we remain committed to shaping a tech ecosystem driven by creativity, collaboration, and inclusion.

Looking ahead, Oladejo envisions a future where the influence of Global Tech Heroes transcends industries, creating systemic changes that uplift communities worldwide. “These certifications are more than plaques on a wall; they are the pillars upon which the future of tech is built. With every hero we induct, we inch closer to our mission of creating a globally inclusive and innovative ecosystem.”