ABOUT THE AWARD

THE SIMORGH award will shine a spotlight on young and emerging talents who, through their dedication, passion, and exemplary achievements, have not only blazed a path for others to follow but will inspire them to discover the same spark within themselves.

The Simorgh Award will honour two outstanding individuals aged 30 or under: one from marketing and one from advertising.

THE SIMORGH

The Simorgh Award takes its name from the legendary bird in Persian mythology, drawn from the Sufi classic ‘The Conference of the Birds.’

In this allegorical tale, the birds of the world embark on a journey to find their king, the Simorgh. Their quest leads them through seven treacherous valleys, each representing a stage of spiritual awakening. Many falter along the way, yet thirty birds persevere. Upon reaching the court of the Simorgh, they discover a profound truth: the Simorgh is not a separate being yet they themselves, united and transformed by the journey, are the Simorgh.

This story symbolizes self-discovery, unity, and the transformative power of perseverance. These values lie at the core of the Simorgh Award, which honors young professionals whose journey, drive, and vision are shaping the future of our industry.

THE TROPHY

THE SIMORGH TROPHY draws inspiration from the original legend. Persian and English letterforms the ‘seen’ and the ‘s’ merge to form the shape of a bird, poised for flight. The base represents a mountain, symbolising the earthly realm and the many challenges, both visible and hidden, that must be overcome before one can truly rise. The use of transparent and solid materials reflects this duality of what is seen and what is endured within.

WHO IS ELIGIBILE?

To be eligible to enter, the candidate must be

Individuals from the marketing and advertising industry including but not limited to:

  • Marketing companies: brand marketers, media, marketing research, digital and activation;
  • Agencies: Communication/creative, digital, media, PR and research.

Aged 30 years or under (born on or after 31st August 1995)

Nominated by the CEO/CMO of the organization.

WHO IS IT FOR?

The Simorgh award is for

The future leaders of the marketing and advertising industry.
Individuals with a vision and high standards of ethics & integrity.
People who have demonstrated innovation, creativity and accountability in executing their responsibilities.
Agile, passionate disruptors who challenge the status quo
Brave, results-driven individuals contributing to excellence and effectiveness within their organisations.
Individuals whose work goes beyond personal or business gain to uplift and grow the industry as a whole

Judging Criteria

A panel of seasoned professionals from the marketing and advertising industry will evaluate all applications based on the following criteria:
Criteria
Vision & Passion:
Clarity of Future Goals, Ambition, and a Demonstrated Drive for Excellence
Body of Work:
Innovative, Bold & Courageous, Agility in Uncertainty, Overall Impact
Effectiveness:
Tangible Achievements and Measurable Growth
Leadership Quality:
Empathy, Integrity, Confidence & Accountability

Judging Process

  • An expert panel of industry professionals will review all submitted applications.
  • The judges will carefully select a total of 6 nominees: three from the field of marketing, and three from the field of advertising.
  • Entrants must arrive at the venue at a specified time for the announcement of the shortlisted candidates.
  • The announcement of the shortlisted candidates will take place on the day of judging.
  • Each of the shortlisted candidates will engage in a 5-minute Q&A session with the judges, allowing each candidate to further highlight their achievements and accolades.
  • The winners of the Simorgh Awards will be announced at the MADsemble conference hosted by PAS on the 1st & 2nd of October.

APPLY

How to enter: It’s quick and easy

  • Entrants to be nominated by the senior management of the organization.
  • Entrants to fill out the application form.
  • Section 1 to be filled by the nominee.
  • Section 2 to be filled by the nominator.
  • Last date to apply: 31st August 2025.
  • Application Fee: Rs. 35,000 plus tax (non-refundable)

THE NOMINATION

What does a strong nomination look like?

We are looking for individuals who have made a clear and notable impact within their organization, those who stand out from their peers through meaningful contributions and exceptional performance.

Examples may include:

  • Introducing a breakthrough idea or approach.
  • Developing an innovative and effective campaign.
  • Delivering measurable and lasting ROI.
  • Managing significant budgets or key accounts.
  • Expanding the company’s media presence or launching a successful new product.
  • Creating memorable content or a body of work that has made a real impact.

The form should show the breadth and depth of your nominee’s accomplishments. Be precise, specific, and concrete in your examples; details and numbers are important and will help us gauge the impact of your nominees’ efforts.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

  • The Simorgh Award is not liable for any copyright infringement on the part of the entrant.
  • PAS reserves full discretion over the manner and timing of all award and nomination announcements.
  • By submitting an entry, the participants and their organisations agree to abide by all rules and terms outlined herein.
  • Winners will be recognised as brand ambassadors of the Simorgh Award and may serve as reference points for future applicants.
  • The jury reserves the right to withhold the award if entries do not meet the required standards and criteria.

All decisions made by PAS in all matters relating to the Simorgh Award competition shall be final and binding.

Jury Interviews

Gallery