Turning the Tide symbolizes the positive change of momentum in the events, the lives, and the fortunes of those involved in the marine industry in our province.

The annual Turning the Tide Award Gala celebrates, commemorates, and recognizes excellence, leadership, and dedication in our marine industry. Through five prestigious awards, a dedicated group of business, industry, and community leaders shine a light on the strength and vitality of the marine sector of Newfoundland and Labrador, both past and present.

The Awards

Know a deserving candidate? Nominate them for special recognition at the Marine Industry’s top black tie gala in North America.

Industry Leadership and Excellence Award

The marine industry is united by common challenges that affect its future growth and success. These challenges are not necessarily unique to the marine industry, but their impacts and the resulting resolutions often are. The challenges facing the marine industry today include; climate change, environmental stewardship and sustainability, marine safety and security, human resources, and new market development. Presented to a business or an organization, this award recognizes corporate success, demonstrated leadership and a commitment to excellence or innovation in one or more of the above noted challenges to the benefit of the industry.

Industry Lifetime Achievement Award

This award is bestowed upon an individual for consistent leadership and outstanding contributions that have not only led to personal and corporate success, but also to the growth and success of the industry itself. A change-agent who has demonstrated throughout their lifetime the passion to challenge the status quo to the benefit of many, the actions of this individual stand out amongst the many individuals who support the marine industry throughout the year. A big picture thinker whose industry breakthroughs and readiness to give back to their province is integral to their being, they already have created a respected legacy and still have more to give.

Award of Historical Marine Significance

This award acknowledges and celebrates our rich marine history, and the recipient may be an individual, organization, or community.The historic significance could be related to a singular event, an accomplishment that has turned the tides of our history, or related to a longer-term activity that has positively impacted our history and culture. Reflecting the strengths that have led to our unique culture and sense of place, the event may be a part of our lesser-known history, or known but deserving of a better understanding and recognition.

Innovation Leadership Award

Innovation is a key success factor in today’s competitive world and it is extremely important to recognize such leadership in the marine industry. Firms that challenge the status quo to come up with a game-changing technology, a smarter work process, or even new markets deserve recognition. The recipient of this award is entrepreneurial, has taken on the risks and sacrifices that most often define the road to a novel solution. Whether that innovation has solved an age-old problem, or opened up a completely new frontier, what is evident is that the winner of this award has pushed through a barrier to benefit their business and, in doing so, has raised the bar (and the ceiling) for the entire marine industry in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Next Wave Leadership Award

The marine industry currently offers a more diverse range of career opportunities for young people than ever before. Attracting new talent is essential to its long-term success. The Next Wave Leadership Award was established to recognize the importance of our youth to this sector and highlight those who are making waves. The award is given to a young professional under the age of 35, who has displayed great leadership qualities and who has already made noteworthy contributions to the marine industry. As an ambassador for the industry, this individual’s early success should reinforce the opportunities available for our young people. Their energy and commitment will inspire others to pursue careers in the marine sector.