Position: Gold in E-mail Marketing Professional of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Kirill Timofeev is an internationally recognized email marketing strategist, founder of Mad Lead Printer, and Fractional CMO/CPO at the U.S.-based fintech platform GFS Group. He has driven GFS’s growth from early-stage revenues to eight-figure annual turnover, achieving a 1130% increase over six years and making email a core driver of over 20% of total revenue.
Known for combining technical precision with strategic vision, Kirill consistently delivers industry-leading results, including 45% B2B open rates, ten full-scale deliverability restorations, and cutting customer acquisition costs by half through data-driven outreach systems.
Position: Gold in Outstanding Achievement in Cloud Technology
Categories:
Gold
I’m a 6 x Certified Salesforce developer with a PHP development background and 13+ years of experience as a Programmer / Team Lead / partly Architect. Almost all my projects were related to e-commerce, business process optimizations, internet marketplaces, etc. My greatest achievement related to the E-commerce award was an excellent optimization of E-commerce processes to ABInbev (the largest beer producer in the world). Regarding my work, that company saves $22.5 million per year on their E-commerce system, which is demonstrated in the recommendation letters. Also, when I was a PHP developer and worked in Gameloft (one of the largest mobile game producers in the world) in the E-commerce department, I made many websites in the EMEA region for selling their games and increased sales in the EMEA region.
Position: Gold in E-Commerce Data Scientist of the Year
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Gold
Alexey Artemov is a Data & AI Solutions Architect specializing in designing and implementing scalable data processing platforms with AI integration for retail enterprises and industries with stringent security and regulatory compliance requirements.
Position: Gold in Digital Marketing Professional of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Natalia Maximova’s professional journey stands as a benchmark for what strategic digital leadership can achieve in today’s fast-moving market. With a career defined by precision, creativity, and a performance-first mindset, Natalia has redefined customer engagement, retention, and sales growth within the e-commerce sector.
As Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of a premium direct-to-consumer audio equipment brand, Natalia led a transformation that resulted in a staggering increase in revenue—from just $4,500 in 2022 to $3.38 million in 2024. Her approach blends deep customer insight with highly targeted performance marketing strategies, using advanced analytics, personalized funnels, and mobile-first UX to drive acquisition and lifetime value. Her work is characterized by discipline, experimentation, and consistent optimization, backed by a clear vision of digital growth.
Beyond execution, Natalia plays a central role in shaping brand identity and strategic positioning. She has built a loyal customer base through thoughtful storytelling, superior digital service, and intelligent use of owned and paid media. Her impact is measurable not only in revenue but in sustained brand equity, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
Natalia’s application impressed the jury with its clarity, results, and strategic coherence. She embodies what the ECDMA Global Awards celebrate: measurable excellence, innovation, and leadership in digital marketing.
Position: Gold in Management in E-Commerce & Digital Marketing
Categories:
Gold
Predictive Inventory Profitability System for Auto Parts. This custom-built inventory and data analytics platform was created to transform how auto parts businesses make purchasing and operational decisions. Developed in-house by our team at Straight Six, the system integrates and analyzes data from over 80,000 sales transactions across online and offline platforms, covering every dismantled vehicle since 2021. It offers real-time insights into break-even periods, return on time invested, and forecasted profits over customizable timeframes—monthly, quarterly, annually, or lifetime.
The system automates 99% of data processing tasks, reducing manual labor to near zero. It is structured as an intelligent spreadsheet-based platform that continuously consolidates financial and operational metrics—including cost of goods sold, sales performance, and cash flow—from all available channels. This has enabled the business to scale rapidly, with no added personnel, while increasing strategic accuracy in procurement.
What sets this solution apart is its adaptability: it can be reconfigured to fit different industries, languages, and company sizes, from single-operator businesses to enterprises with 1,000+ employees. The platform has become the foundation of our company’s exponential growth and is now being prepared for patenting, with interest already expressed by multiple external companies eager to implement it in their operations.
By turning raw transactional data into clear, actionable strategy, this system empowers data-driven decision-making at every level of the business. It not only reveals which investments generate the highest returns in the shortest time but also helps predict future profitability, enabling smarter, faster decisions. It is a living model of operational intelligence built from the ground up—by a business, for businesses.
Position: Gold in Outstanding Achievement in Technology Innovation
Categories:
Gold
Development of fast growing travel tech mobile application with multimillion audience, which has several dynamic content systems for user inspiration and support with journey planning. Within the past 2.5 years: – Developed a solution for integration of external modules with backend-driven UI, allowing for effective scaling of mobile applications. – Developed instagram like stories module with dynamic content system, which greatly increases users retention and engagement. – Designed a new extensible system and reorganised the existing deeplink system, simplifying the integration of various application modules. – Developed and implemented code review standards, introduced innovative practices for code quality assessment, adopted by other teams.
The Tutu.ru app underwent significant redesigns to improve usability. The development team focused on creating a flexible architecture that supports easy updates and maintenance. The app’s design includes 120 screens and 80 user scenarios, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the booking process while minimizing complexity. Users can compare and purchase tickets from various transportation modes, including airlines (e.g., Aeroflot, UTair), trains (e.g., Sapsan), and buses across Russia and Europe. The app provides real-time schedules and allows users to book tickets without long queues. The app boasts a streamlined interface with intuitive navigation, allowing users to complete their bookings in under four minutes. It incorporates user feedback to continuously enhance the experience. In-app customer support is available 24/7, ensuring travelers receive assistance whenever needed.
Alena Lipina has emerged as a transformative figure in the field of Human Resources, particularly in digital and e-commerce sectors, through her innovative application of artificial intelligence in personnel management. As companies navigate the evolving demands of talent acquisition and retention, Alena’s work stands out as a beacon of modern HR transformation. From pioneering ethical AI practices to ensuring employee well-being while enhancing efficiency, her contributions have resonated within the HR community, marking her as a forward-thinking leader in the digital age. Her active membership in global HR associations such as the American Economic Association and various regional HR networks has positioned her as an influential voice in the discourse on AI integration in human resources. Alena’s leadership in these environments, coupled with her innovative approach to AI application, has contributed to a positive shift in the adoption of advanced HR solutions in the e-commerce landscape.
Position: Gold in E-commerce Growth Leader in Scaling & ROAS Performance Lift
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Gold
Kateryna Roh is a digital marketing and e-commerce expert with more than five years of experience in performance marketing. She specializes in managing and scaling advertising campaigns aimed at improving the efficiency of digital channels and achieving measurable business results, including work with Google Ads (Search, Display, Shopping, Video, Performance Max), Meta Facebook & Instagram (Prospecting, Retargeting, Catalog Sales, Shopping), and Programmatic media (Display, CTV, Video, Audio).
Her professional practice is grounded in an analytical and strategic data-driven approach, using modern advertising tools to systematically optimize marketing investments with a focus on KPI achievement and sustainable business profitability. A creative problem-solving mindset and full-funnel conversion support play a key role in her work with clients. Kateryna acts not only as an expert in campaign execution but also as a mentor to business owners in leveraging advertising tools effectively. This working model enables scalable budget growth while improving core performance metrics.
In 2023, Kateryna received the Ukrainian Business Award in the category “Outstanding Expert in Digital Marketing and E-commerce.”
Position: Gold in Best Technical Support (Integrator)
Categories:
Gold
As a Senior Cloud Quality Engineering Specialist at SAP, I work within the fast-paced e-commerce domain, ensuring the stability and scalability of SAP Commerce Cloud. My achievements, such as reducing solution provisioning times from 6 months to 1 day, implementing proactive monitoring systems, and setting quality standards, address the critical need for reliable, efficient, and customer-focused solutions. These contributions have empowered clients to optimize their operations and maximize their technology investments in a competitive digital marketplace.
Position: Gold in Digital Marketing Leader of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Mila Tkachuk has earned her recognition in the Digital Marketing Leader of the Year category through consistent, high-impact contributions to the SEO and digital strategy field across a wide array of industries—from tech and eCommerce to healthcare, finance, and travel. With over six years of progressive experience, Mila has established herself as a results-driven strategist and team leader, combining deep technical SEO knowledge with a creative and analytical mindset.
Currently leading the SEO function at New Media Services Pty Ltd, and consulting as a Senior SEO Specialist at Heyday in Los Angeles, Mila has successfully managed complex optimization projects, improved site architecture, and guided cross-functional teams toward measurable digital growth. She’s known for building SEO strategies from the ground up—integrating on-page and off-page tactics, link building, content development, user experience enhancements, and performance tracking into one cohesive system.
What sets Mila apart is her ability to lead with both vision and precision. Her work spans global and local markets, with a strong focus on aligning business goals with organic growth strategies. She is certified in digital marketing, content strategy, and SEO, and has recently completed an advanced program at UCLA Extension.
Position: Silver in Best Marketing Automation Implementation
Categories:
Silver
Over the past decade, digital advertising has evolved dramatically, but automation in Google Ads management remains a challenge for many businesses. I founded Yakiv Ads to bridge this gap, providing a seamless and efficient automation tool that enables marketers to create and manage Google Ads SKAG campaigns in minutes without technical complexities.
My expertise in computer science, digital marketing, and automation led to the development of this solution, helping businesses, agencies, and individual advertisers save time, reduce costs, and enhance campaign performance. In 2024, after extensive testing on over 200 projects, we launched Yakiv Ads as a publicly available tool, revolutionizing PPC management.
This nomination recognizes my contributions to marketing automation, AI-driven advertising optimization, and the empowerment of businesses through efficient digital advertising solutions.”,”1. Developed and launched Yakiv Ads (2024) – An automation tool that simplifies Google Ads SKAG campaign creation and management, saving businesses up to 86% of manual effort.
2. Implemented AI-powered automation – Our tool automatically optimizes keyword selection, ad copies, and budget allocation, improving ROI and reducing ad spend inefficiencies.
3. Adopted by 200+ businesses – Within months of launching, Yakiv Ads has become a go-to tool for advertisers who want error-free, AI-enhanced campaign automation.
4. Recognized by industry experts – Yakiv Ads has been featured in PPC forums and case studies as a game-changing innovation in digital advertising automation.
5. Optimized advertising for global markets – The tool supports multi-language campaigns and localization, allowing businesses to scale internationally without additional manual efforts.
Position: Gold in Leader of Digital Innovation in Talent Recruitment
Categories:
Gold
Nataliia Kravchenko is a Recruitment Team Lead at Boosta with over 9 years of experience in technical and non-technical hiring across Europe, CIS, South Africa, the Philippines, and India. She leads a team of 10+ recruiters, builds data-driven hiring strategies, and implements AI-powered tools to streamline processes and reduce time-to-hire.
Nataliia authors industry publications on recruitment automation, AI adoption, and offer-acceptance strategies. Her work focuses on creating efficient, scalable recruitment systems that elevate candidate experience through innovation and analytics.
Position: Outstanding Achievement in Enterprise Architecture & Digital Payments
Categories:
Gold
Sergei Gasilov is an Enterprise Software Architect at One Inc (U.S.), a leading digital payment platform for the insurance industry. With over 13 years of experience in enterprise software engineering, he defines the company’s architectural vision and leads the design of secure, scalable, and cloud-native payment systems processing billions of dollars annually.
He is the author of several key innovations at One Inc, including the Payment Data Migrator, Payment Platform API, Batch Processing System modernization, and Webhook Platform scaling, each contributing to the company’s technological leadership and PCI DSS compliance. Recognized for his deep technical expertise and strategic insight, Sergei has received multiple internal awards, including Employee of the Year and Tech Driver, and continues to shape the evolution of enterprise architecture and digital payments across the U.S. market.
Position: Silver in Best Full-Service Digital Marketing Agency
Categories:
Silver
Marketing Link exemplifies excellence in full-service digital marketing, delivering measurable growth and strategic innovation to clients worldwide. Since its founding in 2016, the agency has operated with a 100% in-house team, ensuring transparency, agility, and accountability across every project .
With offices in Tampa, Florida, and Kyiv, Ukraine, Marketing Link specializes in performance-driven services including PPC (Google Ads, Microsoft Ads), paid social (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Reddit), SEO, email marketing, and comprehensive analytics setup . Their approach is rooted in data and automation, enabling clients to scale efficiently while entering new markets across the U.S., Canada, and Europe .
Marketing Link’s commitment to results is reflected in glowing client feedback. On Clutch, they maintain a perfect 5.0 rating, with clients praising their ability to “take on challenges and deliver results” and noting significant improvements in SEO and PPC performance .
Beyond execution, the agency provides strategic leadership in digital transformation—offering white-label services to other agencies, unifying analytics across channels, and integrating marketing funnels into CRM systems. Their founder and CEO, Mykola (Nick) Lukashuk, is recognized globally, including membership in the Forbes Business Council .
Position: Gold in Global Leadership in Digital Communication Innovations for HR Technology
Categories:
Gold
Denis Nikolaev is a lead project manager at Headhunter Co. Ltd. (hh.ru), the largest recruitment platform in Eastern Europe. With over 8 years of experience in digital communications and HR technology, he specializes in building scalable solutions across high-impact product environments. In 2024, Denis led the launch of browser-based voice calls on hh.ru — a first in the regional market — enabling real-time employer-candidate communication with integrated analytics. His work has set new industry standards and is now being adapted for platforms across Central Asia. Denis is also a certified Agile trainer, mentor, and speaker in the PM community.
Position: Silver in Best Advertising Platforms Management and Optimization Tool
Categories:
Silver
Yakiv Ads is an automation platform designed to simplify and optimize Google Ads campaign creation, particularly for users working with Single Keyword Ad Group (SKAG) structures. Built by Mykola Lukashuk and the Marketing Link agency, the tool eliminates the need for spreadsheets and manual keyword segmentation, allowing campaigns to be launched in minutes rather than hours. Users simply input a landing page URL, and the system extracts key topics, generates ad groups, and builds out campaigns with relevant headlines and descriptions.
The tool supports granular control over keyword match types and research depth, and includes smart filters for adding or excluding search terms. Importantly, Yakiv Ads manages negative keywords, ad extension setup, and bid strategy recommendations—all while remaining intuitive and accessible to marketers without technical expertise.
Its practical focus on metrics such as cost per lead (CPL) makes it particularly useful for result-oriented teams. Having been tested across 200+ projects over two years, Yakiv Ads combines practical automation with tested marketing logic. It has quickly become a go-to solution for agencies, in-house specialists, and freelancers looking for faster setup, smarter keyword structuring, and scalable ad management without the overhead of complex platforms.
Position: Gold in Best Performance Marketing Strategy
Categories:
Gold
Digital Marketing Leader of the Year As the Digital Marketing Manager at Summit Properties USA, I specialize in increasing foot traffic to shopping malls across the United States. This task is particularly challenging due to two significant factors: Not all malls are in ideal condition, requiring creative strategies to enhance their attractiveness. The rise of e-commerce, which has shifted consumer shopping behaviors toward online platforms, reducing physical store visits. To address these challenges, I developed a comprehensive digital marketing strategy tailored to each mall’s unique circumstances. My approach includes: Social Media Management for Malls: I implemented a structured content strategy across Facebook and Instagram to engage local communities, showcase mall offerings, and highlight tenant success stories. By leveraging targeted advertising and organic engagement, I successfully increased reach and interactions with potential visitors. Support for Local Businesses: Recognizing that tenants’ success directly impacts mall traffic, I initiated a support program to amplify their presence on social media. This includes collaborative promotional campaigns, content creation guidance, and featuring tenant businesses in mall-wide marketing efforts. This strategy has strengthened the relationship between malls and their tenants while driving customer engagement. Event-Driven Traffic Growth: I designed and executed an event program to attract additional visitors. These events range from seasonal markets and community gatherings to interactive experiences that encourage repeat visits. To maximize attendance, I implemented targeted event promotions through social media advertising, influencer collaborations, and strategic partnerships with local organizations. Strategic Planning and Performance Tracking: We have developed a structured event and marketing program for 2025, ensuring consistency and strategic growth. Each month, we track results using the Placer AI platform, allowing us to measure the impact of our initiatives and adjust strategies accordingly. The results of my digital marketing initiatives have been significant, with increased social media engagement, higher attendance at mall events, and positive feedback from both tenants and visitors. Notably, in the first two months of 2025, event attendance increased by 27%, post views on social media grew by 67%, and the number of followers on Facebook and Instagram continues to rise each month. Through data-driven decision-making and innovative marketing tactics, I have contributed to revitalizing physical shopping experiences and enhancing community connections within the malls Summit Properties USA manages.
Position: Gold in Innovation in E-Commerce Software Development
Categories:
Gold
Oleksandr Pliekhov is an award-winning Senior Android Engineer and recognized authority in mobile and IoT systems engineering, with over 11 years of experience in native mobile development. A Senior Member of the IEEE—a distinction reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional technical achievement—he is acknowledged by the Ukrainian IT community DOU.UA as a top-tier technical expert. Oleksandr has gained sustained national recognition for his pioneering work in Bluetooth communication, mesh networking, and performance optimization in mobile systems.
He has played a critical role in the success of several award-winning and high-impact technology projects. At Ezlo Innovation, Oleksandr was the lead Android architect behind the Atom Smart Hub, a smart home device that won the 2020 IoT Breakthrough Award. He engineered the hub’s Android system, enabling robust communication over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and developed multiple MVPs using BLE and mesh networking. His innovations in this area have had a lasting impact on the development of low-power, high-reliability mesh communication protocols in consumer IoT products.
Oleksandr’s work has been consistently recognized for its technical originality and practical application. His thought leadership includes multiple published articles on Android-based mesh networking and mobile power/resource optimization, including: “Strategies for Minimizing Power Consumption and Optimizing Resources for Android-Based Mesh Networks,” “Optimizing Android Mesh Networks for Mobility,” and “Disaster-Proof Mobile Networks.” These publications have informed the creation of FindMe.AI, his most recent invention—an indoor navigation system using voice, AI, and hybrid BLE/Wi-Fi localization for real-time guidance in airports, campuses, and shopping centers.
In addition to his technical achievements, Oleksandr has served in a leading capacity at distinguished companies such as Welltech and Intellias, where he directed codebase modernization, implemented CI/CD pipelines, and mentored engineering teams. At Welltech, his optimization initiatives helped raise app stability to 99.8% and increased the Play Store rating from 4.4 to 4.9. He also created and published the productivity app “Clients & Visits,” which has surpassed 5,000 downloads. Oleksandr’s consistent record of innovation, influence, and leadership positions him as a candidate of extraordinary ability within the field of mobile and IoT engineering.
Position: Gold in Marketing Campaign Effectiveness Achievement
Categories:
Gold
Short Summary Following McDonald’s exit from Kazakhstan in 2023, we faced the urgent challenge of building a new brand that could win consumer trust and compete in a fiercely competitive QSR market. In November 2023, we introduced I’M Restaurants, marking the start of our journey to establish a distinctive identity. I had a unique chance to lead the development and execution of the Qazan Burger campaign during Nauryz (March–April 2024) to accelerate brand recognition and restore sales momentum. This strategic initiative leveraged deep consumer insights, cultural storytelling, and a high-impact multi-channel strategy to position I’M as a locally relevant and emotionally resonant brand. The results exceeded expectations: +17% sales growth, record-breaking product performance, and a surge in brand awareness. By transforming skepticism into loyalty, the campaign proved that a locally inspired brand can not only survive but thrive against global competitors. Brief description of the setting and circumstances: McDonald’s sudden exit from the Kazakhstani market in 2023 presented a significant challenge for the company. We successfully launched the new brand “I’m Restaurants” with a smooth transition and overwhelmingly positive reception, not only in Kazakhstan but also across the CIS region. However, after an initial surge in sales, demand dropped sharply, marking the beginning of our journey to establish a unique brand identity. With intense competition in Kazakhstan’s quick-service restaurants industry, rivals quickly moved to capture the market share left by McDonald’s, using aggressive promotions, new product launches, and increased marketing efforts to challenge our brand. “I’m” found itself in a unique situation that required swift decision-making, a strategic approach, and effective communication to emphasize its local identity while maintaining international standards. This was a critical moment for the business, as we experienced a decline in customer visits and sales. Our main objective was not only to retain our existing customers but to strengthen their loyalty and lay the foundation for the brand’s long-term success. Rebuilding trust and reconnecting with our audience was essential to ensuring a smooth transition. We aimed to show that I’M was more than just a new brand—it was a part of local culture. We decided to launch a campaign during the national holiday of Nauryz, which is traditionally a time of heightened advertising activity, making it essential for us not just to attract attention but to forge a deep emotional connection with our audience. Goals: – Recover sales lost after McDonald’s exit. – Establish “I’m” as a familiar and trusted brand within the local market. Key Strategies: – Launch a Limited-Time Offer (LTO) featuring Qazan Burger and Chicken Qazan, tailored to local taste preferences. – Partner with popular Kazakhstani singer Raim to enhance emotional engagement through celebrity endorsement. Target Audience: Young adults aged 18–35 in cities where I’m Restaurants operate (Almaty, Astana, Karaganda, Kostanay, Aktobe, and Atyrau). This demographic is highly engaged with quick servicve restaurants and enjoys trying new menu items. Market research revealed that local consumers particularly value juiciness and spice in burgers. Using these insights, the Qazan Burger and Chicken Qazan were developed to cater to their preferences.
Polina Varfolomeeva’s nomination for the “Outstanding PR Achievement” award reflects not only her extraordinary capabilities as a legal strategist but also her rare ability to navigate public narratives and regulatory landscapes across high-stakes, multi-jurisdictional environments.
As the Founder and CEO of Ation Law, Polina leads a consultancy that supports media, tech, and creative businesses in over 20 countries. Her approach uniquely combines legal precision with PR foresight—ensuring that organizations under reputational, regulatory, or geopolitical pressure not only survive but maintain operational integrity and public trust.
A standout example of this was her leadership in crafting and executing crisis PR strategies for companies affected by international sanctions. These strategies safeguarded reputations while simultaneously mitigating legal exposure in over 10 key markets. Through coordinated legal-communications frameworks, she helped businesses maintain access to financial services, retain strategic partnerships, and continue international operations—achievements that speak to both legal mastery and reputational resilience.
Polina also brings PR sensibility into the heart of brand architecture. She has successfully structured marketing campaigns in tightly regulated industries like alcohol and tobacco, delivering legally sound yet creatively vibrant campaigns that reached over 3 million users. These campaigns not only complied with varying national advertising laws but were also recognized with multiple industry awards, highlighting her ability to fuse compliance with competitive positioning.
Further demonstrating her cross-functional leadership, Polina has advised on the launch of media platforms, lifestyle venues, and digital products with valuations up to $10M—each requiring a coordinated legal and PR foundation to build credibility, manage public messaging, and support investor relations. Her experience structuring high-profile media deals with global entertainment leaders such as Netflix, Warner Bros., and HBO speaks to her deep involvement in content rights, brand alignment, and stakeholder positioning.
Polina’s excellence lies in her strategic ability to ensure that every public-facing message is not only compelling but legally secure—an essential asset in a world where media exposure, market regulation, and litigation risk are deeply intertwined.
In an industry increasingly shaped by public perception and legal scrutiny, Polina Varfolomeeva exemplifies what it means to lead with clarity, integrity, and cross-border influence. Her achievements position her as a clear frontrunner for the Outstanding PR Achievement award.
Position: Silver in Content Marketing Professional
Categories:
Silver
Adsy has been nominated in recognition of its innovation and impact in the digital marketing and SEO industry, particularly in the realm of guest posting and link-building services. Launched in 2017, Adsy was created to address a growing challenge in content distribution—connecting brands with high-authority publishers in a scalable, efficient, and transparent way.
Between 2022 and 2025, the digital landscape evolved rapidly, with increasing demand for ethical, ROI-driven content marketing. During this time, Adsy established itself as a trusted guest-posting marketplace—now boasting over 90,000 publisher listings and servicing both brands and agencies worldwide. Its position as a top-tier solution is underscored by its ranking as the #4 guest post marketplace globally in 2025.
Position: Gold in Outstanding Achievement in Technology Innovation
Categories:
Gold
I am a software engineer specializing in civic technology, with a focus on building open, scalable tools for public participation. Since 2022, I have been a contributor to Decidim—an open-source platform for participatory democracy used by governments and institutions around the world. Decidim powers citizen participation processes in cities like Barcelona, Helsinki, Paris, and Zurich. In 2024, the Brazilian federal government formalized a national-level partnership with the Decidim Association, aiming to bring the platform to millions of citizens. My work has been part of this ecosystem. Over the past years, I have contributed to the platform’s architecture, improved its modularity, and led the development of new features. In 2023, I played a leading role in one of Decidim’s most ambitious technical evolutions: integrating a full digital voting system into the platform. Before this work, Decidim supported deliberative processes, proposals, and participatory budgeting, but it lacked the ability to conduct formal voting within its core. Institutions that wanted to run verifiable digital votes had to rely on external or closed-source tools, which often conflicted with the transparency and autonomy values that define civic tech. I was responsible for designing and implementing the core elements that made voting possible directly within Decidim. That included the backend logic, admin flows, participant-facing voting interface, scheduling system, result display, and public traceability. I worked to ensure that the module followed platform conventions, was easy to adopt by cities and organizations, and could operate without introducing unnecessary complexity. This development has already been used in real-world decision-making contexts, such as the Decidim Association’s General Assembly. At the same time, all of this work was published as free and open-source software. I ensured the module was cleanly structured, documented, and extendable—allowing others to build on it across countries and contexts. My role combined technical leadership with product thinking and a deep understanding of how public-sector technology must work: reliably, transparently, and under public control. This nomination reflects both my technical contribution to a key innovation in Decidim and my broader commitment to building open, civic-focused digital infrastructure that can serve millions of people, today and in the future.
Position: Gold in E-Commerce Professional of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Serhii Novosel stands at the forefront of global e-commerce, setting a new benchmark for excellence, innovation, and community contribution among Amazon sellers. Over the past seven years, he has transformed the challenges of cross-border retail into engines for growth, scaling multiple Amazon businesses from Ukraine to the United States and redefining what’s possible in today’s hyper-competitive marketplace.
His operational achievements are extraordinary in an industry where just 0.01% of U.S. Amazon Marketplace sellers ever surpass $1 million in annual sales. After relocating to the U.S. amidst the war in Ukraine, Serhii rebuilt from scratch and quickly achieved over $100,000 per month in FBA wholesale sales. These results were independently audited and recognized by AmazonLit—the leading Amazon wholesale seller community in North America—through their $50K and $100K/month verified performance awards, an achievement reached by fewer than 10% of their 1,000+ members.
Serhii’s reputation as a thought leader extends far beyond his business performance. In 2021, he was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Ukrainian Business Awards (UBA)—one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for founders and executives. This is not an accolade granted lightly; the competition attracts hundreds of accomplished entrepreneurs across sectors, and the selection process is rigorous and highly competitive. Winners are chosen through a combination of peer review, independent evaluation of financial and operational metrics, and assessments of innovation and impact on the business community. For Serhii, securing this title meant standing out not only for outstanding commercial results but also for integrity, vision, and industry-wide influence.
His approach to e-commerce is rooted in rigorous system-building and automation. Serhii developed proprietary procurement and inventory frameworks leveraging spreadsheets, Google Apps Script, and AI-powered analytics, enabling his teams to execute at scale and minimize errors. He is the author of Amazon Wholesale Advantage: Winning Playbook, a tactical guide now used by many aspiring sellers. His strategies for negotiation—such as simulating purchase orders and optimizing global discounts—are recognized case studies in efficiency and margin improvement.
As a community leader, Serhii contributes actively to the top professional networks in Amazon wholesale, including The Wholesale Network’s “Mastermind” tier and the EsellersRI group. He shares tested systems, automation tools, and actionable frameworks that empower sellers worldwide. His role as a featured speaker at the Ukraine Seller Conference and Harper College Business Club in Illinois further amplifies his commitment to education and mentorship.
Serhii’s academic credentials—a U.S.-equivalent Master’s in economic analytics and a Bachelor’s in Economics with honors—equip him to bridge data science with business execution, driving sustainable, year-over-year growth.
In a marketplace where the average seller generates $250,000 annually, Serhii Novosel’s seven-figure, cross-continental businesses and proven leadership distinguish him as a true industry exemplar. His verified results, peer recognition, and national honors—earned in rigorous, highly competitive environments—position him not only as a top seller but as an architect of the future of e-commerce.
Position: Gold in E-Commerce Professional of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Anna Slitskaia is a pioneering force in the global e-commerce landscape whose work has reshaped the professional education of Amazon specialists and set new benchmarks in the industry. As the founder of XSELLER8 Academy, she created a comprehensive educational platform that has equipped hundreds of professionals with the skills needed to thrive in competitive marketplaces like Amazon. Her flagship programs—Amazon Account Management and Amazon PPC Advertising—are among the most rigorous and practical in the field. They not only deliver certification but also real-world results, with graduates successfully launching their own ventures or securing roles in high-performing e-commerce teams.
Since entering the field in 2016, Anna has launched and scaled over 10 brands, placing more than 350 unique products on major platforms including Amazon, Wildberries, and Ozon. Her strategic focus on deep competitor analysis and lean marketing has enabled multiple products to reach category leadership with advertising costs reduced by as much as 78%. One of her most notable achievements includes adapting a Russian brand for the U.S. market on Amazon, where post-rebranding sales surged while marketing spend decreased—a case now widely referenced in e-commerce education circles.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Anna is a recognized thought leader and educator. Her detailed guide to launching a business on Amazon, published on VC.ru, has become a practical manual for new sellers, widely shared across the professional community. She is also a published academic, with three peer-reviewed articles on artificial intelligence in e-commerce and marketing—each indexed by Google Scholar and cited by industry researchers.
Anna’s influence extends to industry leadership. She served as a jury member for the National Creative Industries Award 2024, where she evaluated innovations across AI startups, education, and tech-enabled commerce. She is also a member of the International Association of Entrepreneurs and Executives, actively shaping programs that support business growth and policy dialogue.
Her career is distinguished not only by revenue performance—reaching over 885 million rubles in a single year—but by her consistent commitment to professionalizing the e-commerce sector. Through training, publishing, mentoring, and international judging, Anna Slitskaia has made a measurable impact on the development of the global e-commerce ecosystem.
Position: Gold in Human Resources (HR) Professional of the Year
Categories:
Gold
Sergey Kurazhev and his achievements in HR PR and HRM Marketing Over the past three years, the technology market has been characterized by significant changes and challenges, but Sergey Kurazhev’s work at DataArt Armenia has been proof that it is possible to achieve impressive results even in conditions of instability. His achievements are not only large-scale but also qualitative, and we are happy to share their details. Sergey has developed a unique scientific sociological approach, which, thanks to the application of a completely new methodology, has been successfully integrated into the company’s business cases. Unlike traditional methods, this approach allows to rely on scientific data and sound research, which is a highly effective solution in the context of HRM marketing. This innovation has opened new horizons for DataArt Armenia, allowing the company to more consciously and purposefully implement changes that are reflected in measurable business performance. Sergey strives to ensure that all changes recommended within HRM are based on facts and analytical data, which minimizes risks and makes the process of people management more transparent and predictable. This not only improves team performance, but also creates a sustainable foundation for a corporate culture based on respect and trust. Understanding and applying science-based methodologies in HRM marketing allows Sergey to promote changes that affect not only the internal atmosphere in the company, but also its positioning in the labor market. He actively contributes to DataArt’s positive image, thus strengthening the company’s reputation as an employer that values and develops its employees. Despite external challenges and market instability, Sergey’s work is hard to overestimate. His approach to HR management to the DataArt Armenia team has become a role model and best practice in HR PR and HRM marketing. He applied principles that help not only to solve current problems, but also lay the foundation for the future sustainable growth of the company. Taking into account all the above-mentioned factors, we can confidently state that Sergey Kurazhev is the strongest professional on the market. His achievements based on deep understanding and scientific approach to HRM make him a candidate eligible for nomination to the ECDMA Global Awards. We are confident that his successes will not go unnoticed and he will become an example for future HR and marketing professionals around the world.
Achievements * E-Commerce Business * Digital Marketing & Strategy * E-Commerce Platforms * MarTech and E-Com Tech Solutions * E-Commerce & Digital Marketing Professionals * Team Excellence * Agencies & Integrators * Content & Media * Events & Conferences
Achievements * E-Commerce Business * Digital Marketing & Strategy * E-Commerce Platforms * MarTech and E-Com Tech Solutions * E-Commerce & Digital Marketing Professionals * Team Excellence * Agencies & Integrators * Content & Media * Events & Conferences
Achievements * E-Commerce Business * Digital Marketing & Strategy * E-Commerce Platforms * MarTech and E-Com Tech Solutions * E-Commerce & Digital Marketing Professionals * Team Excellence * Agencies & Integrators * Content & Media * Events & Conferences
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About the Awards
The Premier Global E-Commerce & Digital Marketing Awards
Mission Statement: To recognize and celebrate the individuals, companies, and initiatives that are driving innovation, growth, and excellence in e-commerce and digital marketing worldwide.
Target Audience: These prestigious awards are open to e-commerce businesses of all sizes, digital marketing professionals, agencies, technology providers, and other organizations making significant contributions to the industry.
Global Reach: The ECDMA Global Awards are a truly international program, attracting nominations from across the globe and showcasing the best talent and innovation from every corner of the world.
Prestige and Recognition: Winning an ECDMA Global Award is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and leadership in the field. It’s a powerful symbol of achievement that can elevate your brand, enhance your credibility, and open doors to new opportunities.
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These awards celebrate outstanding accomplishments and breakthroughs across specific disciplines within e-commerce and digital marketing, shining a spotlight on innovation, impactful results, and leadership.
This category recognizes the success and forward-thinking approaches of e-commerce businesses across various aspects of their operations, including customer experience, technology adoption, marketing strategies, and innovative business models.
This category honors the most effective and creative digital marketing strategies and campaigns that drive engagement, build brands, and achieve measurable results.
These awards acknowledge the exceptional work of agencies and integrators who are helping businesses thrive in the digital landscape by delivering innovative solutions, driving growth, and maximizing online potential.
This category spotlights the most innovative and impactful technology solutions designed specifically for e-commerce and digital marketing, recognizing the companies that are developing cutting-edge tools to drive growth, efficiency, and customer engagement.
This category recognizes the best e-commerce and digital marketing events and conferences that create valuable platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
This category celebrates the compelling content and media initiatives that are captivating audiences, building strong brand narratives, and making a significant impact within the e-commerce and digital marketing space.
This category celebrates the individuals who are shaping the future of e-commerce and digital marketing, recognizing their exceptional talent, leadership, and contributions to the industry.
These awards celebrate the exceptional educational programs, resources, and initiatives that are equipping professionals with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic world of e-commerce and digital marketing.
These awards recognize the leading e-commerce platforms and solutions that provide businesses with the tools and infrastructure they need to succeed online, enabling seamless transactions, enhanced customer experiences, and efficient operations.
These awards honor the remarkable achievements of teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration, innovation, and effectiveness in driving success within e-commerce and digital marketing organizations.