IAA Lebanon Hall of Fame: 17 advertising personalities inducted

The IAA Lebanon (International Advertising Association) Hall of Fame ceremony was an extraordinary success, marking a memorable occasion to honor the outstanding contributions of 17 personalities from the world of Lebanese advertising. 

This prestigious event, held at the Casino du Liban, celebrated the creativity, innovation, and dedication of these individuals who have significantly shaped the advertising landscape in Lebanon and the Middle East. 

An atmosphere of achievement and inspiration pervaded the room as award winners or their families received well-deserved recognition for their significant influence on the industry. 

The ceremony not only highlighted the remarkable achievements of these advertising giants but also testified to the vibrant and dynamic spirit of the Lebanese advertising community. 

Testimonials from families and loved ones added a moving and poignant touch to the ceremony. Singers and dancers enlivened the evening in a colorful and festive atmosphere with medleys of famous advertising jingles from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

The inductees honored at this inaugural session represent several areas of the advertising business: agencies, media reps., media, and advertisers. 

In his inaugural speech, Naji Boulos, President of IAA Lebanon, emphasized the unique qualities of these advertising giants, whom he described as heroes for having built their reputations and glory during the most difficult times of war or by emigrating to the Gulf to launch the sector when the region had seen no major development, and for having contributed greatly to its economic boom.

"These brilliant personalities have left a significant imprint on our lives, influencing the course of Lebanese and Arab brands, merchants, and industrialists. Tonight, we celebrate creativity, entrepreneurship, and Lebanese genius", he added.

The 17 honorees are (in alphabetical order): Mustapha Assad, Walid Azzi (1939-2018), Jean-Claude Boulos (1934-2012), Farid Chehab, Antoine Choueiri (1940-2010), Samir Fares (1934-1988), Bernard Fattal (1945-2009), Erwin Guerrovich (1936-2001), Alain Khouri, Akram Miknas, Edmond Moutran (1944-2021), Ramsay G. Najjar (1952-2020), Fouad Pharaon (1904-1967), André Rizk, Ibrahim Tabet, Mounir Takchi (1929-1978), Ghassan Tueni (1926-2012).

The IAA Lebanon Hall of Fame will be an annual event, and in the future, we will see other prestigious names added to this class of 2023.

The ceremony, sponsored by Choueiri Group, will be broadcast on LBCI on Saturday, February 10, at 10:00 pm.