NATPE Budapest announced the recipients of the inaugural NATPE Honors Europe

NATPE Budapest announced the recipients of the inaugural NATPE Honors Europe, a new celebration recognizing trailblazing individuals whose creativity and visionary leadership are reshaping the entertainment industry. The exclusive awards show and celebration will take place on June 23, 2025, at the stunning Dorothea Hotel.
 
NATPE’s Executive Director Claire Macdonald described the spirit of the awards: “NATPE Honors is a celebration of the extraordinary talent and leadership driving our industry forward,. After an incredibly successful launch of the awards at NATPE Global in Miami this February, it was clear that we needed to recognize outstanding leadership in the CEE region. These recipients inspire us with their bold ideas and unwavering commitment to excellence, and we’re thrilled to recognize their impact in Budapest," expressed.  Let us now take a detailed look at each of the awards.

The North Star Award recognizes the career achievements of individuals whose strong leadership has had a bar-raising impact, offering guidance as the industry navigates change. George Levendis (Managing Director, ANT1 TV, Mak TV & Antenna Studios, Greece) is celebrated for his commitment to innovation, his remarkable ability to adapt to emerging trends, and his advocacy for burgeoning talent both in Greece and internationally. His talent for forging impactful partnerships has played a crucial role in the success of numerous global hits.

Levente Málnay (Managing Director and Executive Vice President, AMC Networks International, Central and Northern Europe) is honored for his instrumental role in establishing commercial television in the region following the fall of communism. His exceptional leadership spans content production, launching new channels, and overseeing one of the region’s most diverse portfolios of channels.

Meanwhile, the Shift Disturber Award honors individuals whose bold ideas and leadership are driving transformative change. Daniel Grunt (CEO, Nova Group) is recognized for the extraordinary success of the streaming platform Voyo. Through an unprecedented investment in high-end original and locally relevant content, Voyo has gained both ratings and subscribers, proving a formidable competitor to global streaming giants. Magdalena Szwedkowicz (Producer, MAG Entertainment) is celebrated for reshaping the Polish film and television industry and for producing a slate of high-quality hits. These include “Forgotten Love” (Znachor), “Justice” (Napad), “Squared Love,” and “Sleboda” (Deadly Ties)—titles that not only showcase Poland's rich cultural heritage but also resonate with global audiences.

The Cause + Action Award celebrates a purpose-led champion of change making a positive social impact. Starlight Media, Ukraine’s largest broadcasting group, is recognized for its work supporting and amplifying the voices of veterans. Notably, the company cast a war veteran in the latest edition of “The Bachelor,” highlighting their commitment to social inclusion and representation. Also, the NATPE Honors Europe Awards are set to become an annual tradition, celebrating individuals who are leading change across entertainment and media in the region.

In addition to the awards ceremony, NATPE Budapest will bring together key buyers, sellers, and decision-makers, with participation from top international studios such as A+E Global Media, Fremantle, FOX Entertainment Global, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution, Paramount Global Content Distribution, and Sony Pictures Television. With over 300 buyers from 60 countries already registered, the event is positioned to deliver the most efficient marketplace in the region.