Filipino expatriate honoured with Global Economic Leadership Award 2025
Tribune News Network
Doha
In recognition of his outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to creating meaningful change in Qatar, Metro Manila, and beyond, Doha-based realtor Joseph Timothy Rivera has been honoured with the 'Reduced Inequalities for Excellence in Global Economic Leadership & Community Empowerment Award' at the prestigious Icons of Change Awards 2025.
Rivera received this award primarily for his achievements as the Founding Chairman of the Association of Filipino Real Estate Executives in Qatar (AFREEQ)—an influential organisation devoted to elevating the status and professional skills of Filipino real estate practitioners in Qatar. He was also recognised for his roles as Regional Chairman for the Middle East of AKO OFW Inc., co-anchor of Bantay OFW on DWDD AFP Radio, a former consultant for the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and a congressional nominee in the 2025 Philippine National and Local Elections.
The grand awards ceremony was held on April 27, at Southville International School & Colleges in Las Piñas City, Philippines. Rivera stood out as the only overseas awardee among a distinguished group of honourees, which included Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, PEZA Director General Theo Panga, actress-singer Timmy Cruz, actor-philanthropist Mon Confiado, former senatorial aspirants Atty. Vic Rodriguez Jr. and Felipe Montealto Jr., AHEAD Review Centre CEO Rosanna Llenado, and broadcast journalist RG Cruz, along with representatives from ABS-CBN, GMA TV, The Manila Times, and several other esteemed institutions.
Rivera's initiatives have sparked real, tangible change. Through his leadership, thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have been introduced to ethical and profitable property investment. The forums he spearheaded created career opportunities, fostered business partnerships, and facilitated access to reputable property developers. AFREEQ empowered Filipinos abroad to redefine their identity—not merely as migrant workers, but as investors, professionals, and nation-builders.
For Rivera, receiving such an honour is both humbling and affirming. 'This recognition fuels my passion to keep going,' he remarked. 'Every project I lead, every role I play, is a testament to what Filipinos can achieve abroad—not just as workers, but as leaders and changemakers.'
Reflecting on his award, he said: 'To be considered for this award is both a deep honour and a call to continue the work with even greater passion. This recognition is not mine alone; it belongs to every OFW who rises despite adversity, to every community leader who serves without recognition, and to every changemaker who dares to dream beyond borders. I have always believed that service is not about titles or applause, but about impact.
The Icons of Change Awards 2025 and Metro Manila SDG Action Summit highlighted the transformative power of leadership, innovation, and community engagement. Aligned with the United Nations' declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, the event brought together a diverse coalition of changemakers under one mission: to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through bold action and collaboration.
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