"Artificial Intelligence Is Born Of Our Human Experiences”: IAA Leadership Awards 2025

The IAA India Chapter, a premier body of marketing, advertising, and media professionals, hosted the 12th edition of the prestigious IAA Leadership Awards on August 7, 2025, at Taj Lands End Court, Bandra West, Mumbai. 

This year’s theme reflected the dynamic evolution of our times, where the boundaries between artificial intelligence and human potential are becoming increasingly fluid. In keeping with the theme of AI, the awards ceremony featured robots presenting trophies in place of traditional hostesses, a symbolic nod to the future.

Nandini Dias, Chairperson, IAA Leadership Awards, reflected on the evolving meaning of leadership in her address: “Now in its 12th landmark edition, the IAA Leadership Awards have evolved into more than a celebration of national excellence. As I look back, it’s clear — we are spotlighting individuals who are not only leading India but are destined to leave a mark on the global stage.”

She revealed that the data selection process this year was both expansive and exacting covering more than 2,000 companies across 14 categories. A wealth of data was studied and debated by an eminent panel, with the top 10 emerging through a rigorous analysis of performance indicators such as growth, market share, CAGR, brand equity, creditworthiness, ESG benchmarks and beyond. 

Dias added, “A stellar, all-CEO jury led by Prabha Narasimhan of Colgate Palmolive, chosen for their breadth of industry insight — then evaluated the findings. To safeguard objectivity, all scoring parameters were pre-set and locked before the jury accessed the results.”

The night’s most prestigious honour, IAA Business Leader of the Year 2025, was conferred upon Uday Kotak, recognising his visionary leadership and lasting contribution to India's financial and corporate landscape. Kotak shared: “India has come a long way — from a time of limited access and opportunity to a nation brimming with potential and ambition. But this is not the time to get comfortable. We must stay hungry, stay restless, and embrace the journey ahead with purpose and passion. The future belongs to those who choose to build it, and I believe India’s best is yet to come.” 

Creative visionary Prasoon Joshi was inducted into the IAA Hall of Fame for his extraordinary contribution to the advertising and creative industries over the decades. Reflecting on the honour, he said: “This industry was built by giants, and it’s their brilliance that continues to attract talent and elevate the craft. As we enter a new era shaped by AI, let’s not forget — there’s nothing truly artificial in artificial intelligence. It’s born of our human experiences, our emotions, our stories. The future will be defined not just by data, but by the yet-unexpressed brilliance within us. That is where humanity will continue to shine.”

In the world of influence and consumer trust, actor Kartik Aaryan and actress Tripti Dimri were named IAA Brand Endorsers of the Year in the male and female categories respectively, for their growing resonance with youth, authenticity and strong brand associations.

As for Creative, Media & Impact Recognition, Senthil Kumar, VML, was honoured with the IAA Creative Agency Head of the Year Award for pushing creative boundaries with game-changing campaigns. Mohit Joshi, Havas Media, was named IAA Media Agency Head of the Year for delivering media innovation and client-focused solutions. 

Kevin Vaz, JioStar, received the IAA Media Person of the Year Award for his influential role in shaping India's media ecosystem. Ramesh Narayan was honoured with the ‘Force for Good’ Award in recognition of his decades-long commitment to ethical leadership and his unwavering dedication to driving social impact through advertising. 

In the automobile category, Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., was honoured as IAA Leader of the Year – Auto Passenger Vehicles (EV + UV). Yogesh Mathur, Director – Sales & Marketing at Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, was named IAA Leader of the Year – Auto (Two Wheelers + EV).

In the FMCG space, Jayen Mehta, Managing Director of Amul (GCMMF), was awarded IAA Leader of the Year – FMCG (Food). In the consumer durables category, Pradeep Bakshi, MD & CEO of Voltas Ltd., was honoured as IAA Marketer of the Year – Consumer Durables.

Karan Bedi, Director & Head at Amazon MX Player, received the IAA Leader of the Year – OTT Award and Ajay Khanna, Managing Director of Herbalife India, received the IAA Leader of the Year – Consumer Health.

Abhishek Karnani, President, IAA India Chapter, shared his reflections on the occasion: “The IAA has always believed that with leadership comes great responsibility – towards our stakeholders, towards this glorious nation, and towards the only planet we can call home. This year, beyond honouring excellence, we’re taking steps toward a more conscious future by offsetting the event’s carbon footprint and launching initiatives focused on skilling, AI-readiness, and continuous conversation. We’re proud to celebrate leaders who not only build brands but also shape culture, innovation, and purpose.”