The Rolex Awards for Enterprise was set up in 1976 by André J. Heiniger, then CEO of Rolex. Conceived as a one‑off celebration meant to mark 50 years of the Rolex Oyster, the world’s first waterproof watch, it drew so much international interest that Rolex transformed it into an evergreen, biennial programme instead. Since then, it has supported more than 160 laureates of over 50 nationalities, whose projects have benefited humanity and/or the planet in more than 65 countries worldwide.
“We initiated the Rolex Awards for Enterprise out of a conviction that we had a responsibility as a company to take an active interest in improving life on our planet,” shared Heiniger, “and in the desire to foster values we cherish: quality, ingenuity, determination and, above all, a spirit of enterprise.”
Today, the Rolex Awards for Enterprise is subsumed under the brand’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, which debuted in 2019 as the overarching programme for all of the brand’s conservation efforts.
A DIFFERENT TYPE OF Recognition
The Rolex Awards for Enterprise is unique in several ways. For a start, it does not retrospectively honour past accomplishments; rather, it supports new or ongoing projects. Application criteria are also highly atypical. In the spirit of recognising original, visionary projects that can improve lives and protect our planet, as well as the expertise and will to execute them, the Awards only requires candidates to be aged 18 and above—no other academic or professional qualifications are needed.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Awakening After Adversity
Author and wellness advocate JILL ALPHONSO says the one thing that breast cancer taught her was to prioritise herself-a lesson every young woman must learn.
Miami Vibes
Urban art, dreamy beaches, Latin flavour...find out why these have made MIAMI a sought-after destination.
The Language Of Flowers
Young designers are falling for the subversive power of a classic motif.
The Joy Luck Club
The duo behind YanYan takes play very seriously. Phyllis Chan and Suzzie Chung share how they are shaking up the world of knitwear while having absolute fun.
Wild West
For its latest collection, WEEKEND MAX MARA teams up with American actress Lucy Hale to embrace the season's rustic charm.
Men Of The Hour
Fresh off the success of their drama, 4MINUTES, Thai actors Bible Wichapas Sumettikul and Jespipat Tilapornputt are on the cusp of international stardom.
Conquer The Day
As a versatile everyday watch with panache, LONGINES' new Conquest collection gets the job done very nicely.
Woman On A Mission
Rebecca Lim may have taken a step back from showbiz to settle into her new role as first-time mum, but the actress wants everyone to know that they haven't seen the last of Becks. She talks to ELLE about reconciling motherhood and career.
The Making Of An Icon
"SHOUT, SHOUT, LET IT ALL OUT," sings Fann Wong as glittering creations from Buccellati are carefully put on her.
Million Dollar Woman
With her dazzling confidence and supermodel aura, GIGI HADID is the embodiment of Rabanne's new Million Gold For Her fragrance.
