The journey to becoming a Global Tech Hero begins with either a nomination by peers, a nomination by a private researcher or self-application. Individuals are encouraged to submit a detailed profile, showcasing their professional accomplishments, contributions, and involvement in the technology industry. Nominees should also provide verifiable proof of their impact, which will be reviewed in subsequent stages.

Once nominated or having applied, candidates are required to gather professional attestations. Attestations act as formal testimonials from colleagues, supervisors, peers, mentees, or clients who can vouch for the candidate’s skills, expertise, and contributions.

This phase is a critical aspect of the certification process, as these endorsements help validate the nominee’s achievements. Attestations should focus on:

• Technical prowess: Highlighting the candidate’s skills and innovative approaches.
• Leadership: Evidence of the candidate’s role in leading teams or projects.
• Mentorship: Testimonials on how the candidate has mentored or positively influenced others in the tech space.
• Industry contributions: Insights into how the candidate’s work has impacted organizations or communities at large.

After gathering the required attestations, all testimonies are submitted for review by professional evaluators. These independent reviewers, usually industry experts, thoroughly assess the submissions. The evaluation process is rigorous and focuses on the candidate’s Technical achievements, Contributions to the digital technology sector, Leadership roles and impact, and Innovative ideas and solutions.

The evaluators examine the participant’s attestation portfolio, projects, and professional background to ensure that they align with the high standards set by The Connected Awards. Each submission is reviewed with meticulous detail and only those that meet the required benchmark advance to the next step.

Following a successful review, the participant is formally inducted as a Global Tech Hero. This induction is marked by a ceremonial presentation of:

• The Global Tech Hero Certificate: A recognition document that acknowledges the individual’s contributions to the tech space.
• An Induction Letter: This letter serves as an official confirmation of the candidate’s induction into the illustrious ranks of Global Tech Heroes.
• Special Crafted Award and Medal: A specially crafted work of art that serves as a physical immortalization of participants and a motivating artifact to further impact the digital technology sector.

To further honour the inductees, The Connected Awards will facilitate media coverage. Press releases are published across various platforms to highlight the inductee’s journey and contributions. In some cases, a full article may be featured in prestigious outlets, giving public recognition of their achievements and success.

The inductee is celebrated in The Connected Awards network, joining a global community of tech leaders who have made a substantial impact in their respective fields. Social media platforms are also used to share and celebrate the accomplishments of the newly inducted Global Tech Hero.

As part of the Global Tech Hero family, inductees are encouraged to remain active in the tech community by mentoring, contributing to industry initiatives, and supporting future generations of tech professionals. They are seen as role models, and their involvement in outreaches, webinars, and conferences is highly valued.

Many Global Tech Heroes also take on responsibilities such as becoming evaluators for future candidates, giving back to the tech ecosystem, and fostering an inclusive community that encourages more women and underrepresented groups to join and excel in tech.