At a prestigious ceremony on March 26, 2025, the winners of the 2025 Diplomat of the Year Awards were announced, honoring exceptional diplomats serving in Zimbabwe. This esteemed event recognizes individuals who have made remarkable contributions to diplomacy and humanitarian efforts, fostering strong international relations and supporting local communities.
Recognizing the outstanding efforts of diplomats across various regions, the awards were categorized as follows:
Outstanding Contribution to Diplomacy and Charity Award
Mrs. Nadia Abassi, President, Diplomatic Spouses Association
Diplomat of the Year, Europe
H.E Dr. Margret Verwijk, Ambassador of Netherlands to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. Udo Volz, Ambassador of Germany to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. Jobst Von Kirchmann, Ambassador of the European Union to Zimbabwe
Diplomat of the Year, The Middle East
H.E Ms. Berna Kasnakli Vertseden, Ambassador of Turkey to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. Tamer Almassri, Ambassador of Palestine to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. Jassim Mohammed Al Qassimi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Zimbabwe
Diplomat of the Year, Americas
H.E Mr. Adler Aristilde, Ambassador of Canada to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. Vilmar Rogeiro Coutinho Jr, Ambassador of Brazil to Zimbabwe
H.E Ms. Pamela Tremont, Ambassador of the United States of America to Zimbabwe
Diplomat of the Year, Africa
H.E Mr. Rashid Mohammed Abdulwahid, Ambassador of Ethiopia to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. James Musoni, Ambassador of Rwanda to Zimbabwe
H.E Ms. Salwa Mowafi, Ambassador of Egypt to Zimbabwe
Diplomat of the Year, Asia and the Pacific
H.E Mr. Yamanaka Shinichi, Ambassador of Japan to Zimbabwe
H.E Mr. PARK Jae Kyung, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Zimbabwe
H.E Ms. Minoli Perera, Ambassador of Australia to Zimbabwe
Overall Winner: 2025 Diplomat of the Year Award
H.E Dr. Margret Verwijk, Ambassador of Netherlands to Zimbabwe
Accepting the award, Mrs. Nadia Abbasi said, “on behalf of the Diplomatic Spouses Association (DSA) Zimbabwe, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to the Diplomatic Business Networking Club for honoring us with this award for the second straight year. This recognition showcases the dedication of our DSA team, who volunteer their time to make a positive impact.
Founded in 1981, the DSA Zimbabwe is a non-profit organization that connects spouses of diplomats. We focus on community upliftment through charity initiatives, supporting projects in education, healthcare, and youth skills development.
A key part of our mission is to strengthen cultural ties between the diplomatic community and Zimbabwe. Our annual DSA Diplomatic Charity Bazaar brings together embassies to showcase their traditions and local businesses, with all proceeds directed to our charitable efforts.
We invite our current and future sponsors to join us for our third bazaar on *October 25, 2025, at the Old Georgians Club in Mount Pleasant*. Together, we can empower more lives, especially women and students.
This award inspires us to enhance our work in education and cross-cultural exchange. It belongs to Team DSA—your passion drives our success. Maita basa!
The event exhibited the vital role of diplomacy in promoting peace, collaboration, and mutual understanding among nations. It celebrated the dedication of diplomats and inspired future generations to pursue excellence in their diplomatic careers.
