Turning Tides―Transforming Times: Tale of a Titan It needs some of the most prominent leaders to drive change to transform unsustainable times into sustainable ones. Resolute human will has always turned tides in humanity’s favor while battling turbulent waves of the passing moments and raging storms of personal, local, and global challenges. That’s how these visionary minds shaped the present events while directing the course of tomorrow for a better future. As the Director-Global Sustainability at the d&b group – a global leader in event technology comprised of d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG and d&b solutions Ltd. – Robert Trebus is redefining this era by showing how innovation, data, and collaboration transform live events into sustainable growth engines. When you think about transformation, most people imagine it as a recent phenomenon. But for Robert Trebus, Director Global Sustainability at the d&b group – a global leader in event technology, comprised of d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG and d&b solutions Ltd. – transformation has been a professional constant for more than three decades. His career has spanned the introduction of innovations in the entertainment market, the creation of new business models, and the steady advancement of sustainability as a core business driver. “Transformation in the economy is often perceived as something new,” Robert Trebus reflects, “but I’ve been actively shaping it for over 30 years. Today, sustainability and digitalization are the strongest forces driving this change. My mission is simple: to future-proof the event industry.” From early on, he was fascinated by the dual role of technology and innovation – as both a source of challenges and a key to solutions. That conviction led him to focus his work where impact is greatest: at the intersection of industry, regulation, and society. Through his involvement in national and international standardization bodies, associations, and projects, Robert Trebus has helped make sustainability measurable, comparable, and practically applicable. Today, at the d&b group, he is responsible for steering the global sustainability agenda – not just for the company, but as part of a larger effort to shape the future of the entire live event industry. His vision is bold yet pragmatic: events must continue to create powerful experiences, but without leaving deep scars on the environment. Beyond Compliance: Embedding Sustainability in Strategy Unlike many executives who treat sustainability as a compliance function, Robert Trebus sees his role as far more expansive. “My job is about shaping transformation holistically,” he explains. This means managing regulatory frameworks such as ESG reporting, the EU Taxonomy, and the Green Deal, while simultaneously developing strategies for the circular economy, climate neutrality, and sustainable product design. His team creates systems that streamline internal processes and deliver transparency to customers, investors, and partners. His guiding principle: sustainability must be embedded at the very heart of corporate strategy – not as an add-on, but as a driver of innovation, competitiveness, and long-term relevance. Recognition Built on Consistency Recognition has followed Robert Trebus in recent years, but he is quick to emphasize that awards and honors do not emerge from isolated actions. They are the product of years of consistent work: leading international projects, building networks, shaping standards, and bridging politics, industry, and science. “For me personally, such recognition confirms that consistent efforts in standards, strategy, and innovation are not only seen, but valued,” he says. “For the d&b group – comprising d&b audiotechnik GmbH & Co. KG and d&b solutions Ltd. – it is also a strong signal: we are not only a manufacturer and service provider, but an active driver of sustainable transformation in the global event industry.” Leading by Balance: Vision and Precision Robert Trebus is clear about the essence of sustainability leadership: balancing vision with reality. His principle is succinct – think big, act with precision. That balance requires a deep understanding of the value chain, from suppliers and partners to customers and policymakers. “Each stakeholder has unique needs and unique capabilities. Only a holistic approach creates a robust foundation for sustainable growth,” he notes. Visions may inspire, but they only generate impact when translated into values, processes, metrics, and action. Robert Trebus emphasizes governance and systems that tie long-term goals to measurable short-term progress. He sees himself as both an inspirer and a bridge-builder – translating the language of politics and science into the operational reality of a global market leader. “In this way,” he says, “transformation is not only promised – it is delivered.” Culture Change: From Obligation to Pride Sustainability has already reshaped d&b group’s culture. At the leadership level, market transformation commands top attention. Customers’ sustainability goals are understood in detail and supported with tailored solutions. At the team level, sustainability has shifted from an obligation to a source of pride and motivation. But Robert Trebus underscores that cultural change doesn’t happen by chance – it requires structure. Processes have been continually refined, sustainability targets embedded in strategy, and mandatory training programs established. The result: sustainability is no longer an abstract concept but a lived practice, anchored in decision-making at every level of the company. Innovation in Practice: Sustain Symphony Robert Trebus’s vision for innovation is clear: make sustainability not only possible, but accessible and scalable. The company’s flagship initiative is SustainSymphony, an ESG platform offering tools for organizers, venues, and partners to measure, manage, and report their sustainability performance transparently. It reflects international standards but remains practical and user-friendly. Importantly, it is freely accessible with lower barriers and encourages widespread adoption. The impact is already visible. Events that once viewed sustainability as a cost factor now recognize it as a value driver. Data and transparency have unlocked new opportunities – from operational improvements to access to green finance. “Sustainability is shifting from a reporting exercise to a true growth engine for the industry,” Trebus notes. The Power of Data and International Standards For Robert Trebus, credible sustainability starts with robust data. He acknowledges that this is often a major hurdle, but emphasizes that the effort quickly pays off. High-quality data creates long-term

The international maritime industry, based on the global oceanic currents for its survival and success, had been transformed in every other way except for being completely transparent. In the words of Terje Kristiansen, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shipnet, over the past two decades, he was privileged to witness the remarkable technological evolution of the maritime industry. “The progress from the initial era of rudimentary satellite communications to advanced AI-powered route optimization of today has been nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, as we stand on the brink of another transformative era, it’s clear that the next wave of change isn’t about hardware or software, it’s about transparency,” he adds. According to Terje, the shipping industry has struggled with a very limited vision since its inception when it came to vital information such as fuel usage, vessel emissions, and environmental impact. The data was there. However, much of it remained locked away in ship logbooks or siloed within proprietary systems, making it difficult to identify inefficiencies or fully grasp the ecological footprint of maritime trade. “But this is changing as we speak. A new wave of forward-thinking shipowners is dismantling these barriers and ushering in a new era—one defined by bold transparency and accountability in environmental performance,” says Terje Kristiansen. From Curiosity to Command: The Genesis of a Maritime Tech Leader For Terje Kristiansen, the tide that carried him into the world of maritime technology wasn’t a sudden surge—it was a current he had been quietly following since his youth. “I had an early interest in shipping,” he recalls, “but equally strong was my fascination with computers and software.” That dual passion created a natural intersection for his career to flourish—one where ocean trade met digital innovation. In 1998, that convergence became a reality when he joined Shipnet, a then-burgeoning provider of maritime software solutions. Yet, while technology brought him into the industry, it was people—and particularly leadership—that would shape the kind of leader he would become. “I didn’t realize it at the time,” Terje admits, “but my first Sales Director at Shipnet left a lasting impact on how I lead today.” That early mentor didn’t rely on pressure or intimidation to drive results. Instead, he used empowerment and coaching, encouraging his team to aim high while making work an environment of inspiration rather than anxiety. “He was always driving targets,” Terje remembers, “but in a way that made you actually look forward to coming in each day.” That approach—values-driven, growth-minded, and deeply human—laid the foundation for Terje’s leadership philosophy. It’s one he continues to uphold as Shipnet pushes the boundaries of what maritime software can achieve in the modern era. Navigating Uncertainty: Leadership Shaped by the Sea The global shipping world is ever-shifting. Here, uncertainty isn’t an exception—it’s a constant. The ocean, vast and untamed, mirrors the business environment Terje Kristiansen has come to master: full of opportunities, but never short on surprises. As the CEO of Shipnet, he doesn’t just acknowledge the unpredictability of maritime commerce—he embraces it as a crucible for resilience and leadership. “The dynamics of the shipping industry indirectly help build your resilience,” Terje explains. “Things can change fast.” From geopolitical shocks to supply chain bottlenecks and regulatory overhauls, volatility is part of the daily rhythm. And yet, over the course of decades in the industry, he has come to see this not as a barrier, but as a forge—one that tempers decision-making with experience, perspective, and strategic patience. “You learn to make better decisions as your experience deepens,” he reflects. “It’s about gathering enough information, asking the right questions, and learning when to act decisively—or when to wait.” For Terje Kristiansen, decision-making isn’t about speed for its own sake. It’s about timing, clarity, and alignment with a long-term vision that doesn’t sway with every wave. But he’s the first to admit that steering the ship of Shipnet alone would be impossible. “No CEO stands at the helm alone,” he says. “You are only ever as good as your team.” For Terje Kristiansen, assembling a strong leadership crew has been one of his most vital investments. Around him are individuals who bring not just skills, but insight and accountability—partners in navigating the crosscurrents of technology, client needs, and industry transformation. It’s this collective strength that allows Shipnet to stay agile while never losing sight of its long-term course. In many ways, Terje Kristiansen’s leadership style is much like navigating the sea: alert, adaptable, and grounded by purpose. He listens closely to shifting winds, but he never lets them determine the destination. The journey may be unpredictable, but with the right crew, steady hands, and a clear vision, the course remains firm. Charting Innovation with Purpose: Terje Kristiansen’s Vision for Sustainable Maritime Tech As global conversations around sustainability grow louder, the maritime world finds itself at a decisive crossroads. For Terje Kristiansen, this isn’t just a matter of corporate responsibility—it’s a matter of enduring relevance. The future of shipping lies at the intersection of sustainability and technology, and Terje Kristiansen is committed to ensuring Shipnet not only keeps pace but leads the charge. “Innovation means nothing if it doesn’t create value for the customer,” Terje says with quiet conviction. That belief is deeply embedded in the company’s DNA. While buzzwords like ‘green tech’ and ‘digital transformation’ float freely across the industry, Terje takes a more grounded approach: pragmatic, people-focused, and impact-driven. His strategy begins, once again, with his team. “It’s all about the people,” he emphasizes. “Having the right individuals in the right roles in the senior leadership team is what truly supports forward momentum.” For Terje Kristiansen, innovation isn’t the result of flashy one-off projects; it’s a steady process powered by aligned minds who understand both technology and market reality. That alignment is critical when dealing with the complexities of ecological responsibility. Whether it’s integrating emission-tracking software, enhancing fuel optimization tools, or enabling smarter fleet performance management, Shipnet’s mission is clear: reduce the ecological footprint of global shipping, without increasing the operational burden on customers.

Few legal minds operate with the scope, strategic vision, and moral authority of Meriam Nazih Alrashid. As a Globally Ranked International Disputes Counsel and Independent Arbitrator, her career is a blueprint for achieving the pinnacle of international justice. For nearly 23 years, Meriam navigated the highest echelons of ‘big law,’ ultimately serving as Global Co-Chair of International Arbitration and Co-Head of the Latin America Arbitration Practice Group at Eversheds Sutherland US LLP. Meriam’s mission is clear: to shape the landscape of international justice through strategic dispute resolution. The Chambers attorney ranking service recognizes her and her broad experience, which includes complex international investment and commercial arbitrations throughout the world and ongoing work in the MENA, Central Asia, and Central & South America regions. What sets Meriam apart is her profound commitment to Human Rights (BHR). Her work extends beyond corporate disputes to advising Sovereign States and civil society NGOs on post-conflict peace negotiations, mediation of separatist organizations, and the adjudication of atrocity crimes, including advocating for legal accountability for crimes against the Rohingya population in Myanmar. Her dual commitment is especially illustrated through her work as Founder and President of Allusionist Pictures, which creates films around legal and social justice themes. Meriam is a real innovator, combining the rigors of international law and the power of storytelling to link issues of corporate governance to the protection of human dignity globally. Purpose, Courage, and the Transformative Power of Truth Meriam’s vastly diverse career, spanning high-stakes arbitration, human rights advocacy, and film production, is tethered by one unchanging value: purpose. Her foundation was forged in a profound duality, having been raised between Utah and Baghdad during the tumultuous Iran-Iraq War. This upbringing instilled two urgent, early lessons: “the urgency of justice, and the need to tell stories that matter.” Across every pursuit, the throughline has been defined by integrity and courage, rooted in a deep belief in the transformative power of truth. For Meriam, the perceived chasm between the legal and creative worlds is an illusion. She sees them as deeply connected forces, both used to “shape narratives that impact lives”—whether those narratives are presented in a formal legal brief or on a cinema screen. A Lived International Law: The Pursuit of Global Accountability Her commitment to international law was less of a traditional academic choice and more of a “lived” experience. Her childhood exposed her to the challenging intersection of two vastly different systems: the stability of Western academia and the complex reality of Middle Eastern geopolitics. After beginning her career in antitrust litigation, Meriam felt compelled to seek a space where law could directly engage with global accountability. This realization propelled her to pursue a Master’s in International and Comparative Law at George Washington University—a demanding period where she worked full-time and taught simultaneously. This formative experience cemented her conviction, solidifying her commitment to leveraging international dispute resolution, human rights, and arbitration as powerful vehicles for systemic change. She was determined to use her meticulous legal intellect not just to solve disputes but to fundamentally change the systems that create them. Success as Systemic Change Meriam’s definition of success transcends typical legal metrics, focusing instead on her impact on the wider structure of global justice. For her, success is not measured by “headlines or accolades,” but by the deliberate effort to challenge enduring systemic flaws. She defines her mission as the dedication to “outlasting what’s wrong,” viewing her entire career as a mechanism for dismantling the unjust status quo. This commitment manifests in her active mentorship and advocacy, where success means “leaving a door open for someone who otherwise wouldn’t be let in”—specifically for women of color aspiring to law. Whether she is advising sovereign states or guiding the next generation, her objective remains constant: “using whatever power I have to create space, shift systems, and never let injustice go unchallenged.” Her success is therefore measured by the enduring positive change she enacts, not the fleeting recognition she receives. Meticulousness Grounded in Human Cost The traits for which Meriam is consistently praised—being a “standout lawyer,” a “formidable litigator,” and “very meticulous”—are not just professional skills; they are expressions of a deep sense of responsibility. For Meriam, “meticulousness is not just about detail, it’s about care.” Clients, whether they are governments, investors, or NGOs, come to her in moments of profound complexity, needing more than rote legal advice. They require clarity, strategy, and cultural fluency. Her leadership is therefore grounded in deep listening and an unwavering discipline. Critically, her lived experience shaped an indelible perspective that separates her practice from others. Having worked and advised in high-conflict areas, she understands that every complex dispute has a human dimension, ensuring she “never forgets the human cost behind each dispute,” because she knows “that every decision has weight.” The Art of Cross-Cultural Diplomacy Meriam’s extensive experience advising in complex disputes across the MENA, Central Asia, and the Americas is rooted in her unique cross-cultural fluency. Having navigated the profound duality of Arab and American cultures from an early age, she understands that effective dispute resolution requires more than legal expertise; it demands “respect, humility, and fluency in nuance.” She stresses that the crucial step is cultural translation, which applies not just to language, but to understanding deep-seated values, norms, and expectations. Meriam champions a diplomatic approach, asserting: “You can’t impose one model of justice onto another cultural context and expect resolution.” The truly fair and enduring outcomes are achieved when she can “meet parties where they are,” building bridges rooted in mutual dignity. This blend of meticulous legal strategy and deep cultural empathy is, in her view, the definition of effective global diplomacy. Balancing Law with Ethical Accountability The global legal landscape is undergoing a powerful shift, moving beyond a simple focus on procedural rules and treaties. Meriam has actively evolved her practice to address this, recognizing a growing demand for legal experts who are also consciously aware of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. Her work increasingly involves the difficult but