The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has named Vitaly Smilianets, Founder and CEO of Awery Aviation Software, as the first recipient of its newly established Inspirational Leader Award.
The recognition was formally presented during the Executive Summit 2025 in Hong Kong, celebrating Smilianets’ outstanding leadership, pioneering innovation, and his unwavering dedication to mentoring and empowering the next generation of air cargo professionals.
TIACA’s Inspirational Leader Award aims to spotlight individuals who have made a significant impact on the industry through visionary thinking, positive transformation, and a commitment to shaping the future of global air cargo.
The Inspirational Leader Award honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and vision while playing a key role in nurturing young talent and advancing the air cargo and logistics industry. Uniquely, the award is judged entirely by a panel of young professionals under 35, reflecting the voice of future industry leaders and highlighting the qualities that resonate most with emerging talent.
“Vitaly has not only built a successful business grounded in innovation and digital transformation, but he has done so while actively mentoring others, sharing his knowledge, and encouraging fresh perspectives,” said Steven Polmans, Chair of TIACA. “He embodies what this award stands for: inspiration, impact, and inclusive leadership.”
Smilianets founded Awery Aviation Software with a vision to digitally transform air cargo operations and has since led the company to become one of the most dynamic tech providers in the industry. Beyond his achievements in business, he is widely admired for his mentorship, authenticity, and advocacy for digitalization and transparency. His leadership has inspired countless young professionals to pursue careers in logistics and aviation technology.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this award; it reflects not just my personal journey, but the dedicated work of my teams at both Awery and CargoBooking to drive positive change for the industry. We have always believed in the power of technology to move this industry forward, and I am incredibly proud of what my team and I have achieved together so far.
As a tech company, we’ve always benefitted from young minds, and many of our best ideas come from those who are still relatively new to the industry. Creating opportunities for those starting out in aviation is vital in keeping the air cargo industry resilient, relevant, and sustainable.”
The Inspirational Leader Award is part of TIACA’s ongoing effort to foster inclusive leadership and promote cross-generational collaboration. The 2025 jury consisted of:
- Jordan Lee– Account Director, Meantime Communications
- Charlotte Goldstone– News Reporter, The Loadstar
- Sara Van Gelder– Director of Products, Nallian
- Ghariba Suleiman– Business Development Manager, Cargo & Logistics, KSIA
- Sierra Conley– Air Cargo Sales Support Supervisor, UPS
- Jolien Mussen– Project Coordinator, Air Cargo Belgium
- Alana Raitt– Global Director of Airfreight, Consol Alliance
“Congratulations to Vitaly and to all those nominated,” said Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General. “We are proud to see so many inspiring leaders making a real impact. I also want to thank every young professional who participated in the nomination and judging process. Your voices have created a meaningful new tradition that celebrates the heart and future of air cargo.”
