Ethiopian Airlines, the fastest growing and most profitable airline in Africa, is pleased to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tewolde Gebremariam, has won the 2013 Planet Africa Professional Excellence Award on 2 November 2013 during a ceremony held at the International Centre in Toronto, Canada.

The award event of 2013 was held under theme “Celebrating the Dream”, in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the "I have a Dream speech" of the renowned American civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King. His daughter, Dr. Bernice King, delivered a keynote speech and received the Legend Award in recognition of his legacy.

Planet Africa Awards recognizes commendable individuals, businesses and organizations for their hard work and excellence in leadership demonstrated through visible difference brought in the lives of people of African heritage globally, especially the young generation.

"I am highly honored to receive this Professional Excellence Award at the ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream” speech, which has inspired and continues to inspire people all over the world. I have dedicated this award to the 8,000 strong men and women of Ethiopian Airlines family, who are working hard every day and night to make our Pan-African airline shine high in the sky and realize its Vision 2025. It is their success. Thanks to their unique commitment and dedication, and despite the daunting challenges prevailing in our industry, Ethiopian is registering one of the highest rate of growth and expansion with the most modern fleet and sound balance sheet", said Tewolde Gebremariam, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines upon receiving the award from Planet Africa.

Ethiopian was the recipient of multiple awards in 2013, including as the Best Airline in Africa from Passenger Choice awards and the Best Staff Service in Africa from SKYTRAX.

 Source: Ethiopian Airlines Press Release