NATPE Budapest, the CEE region’s leading global TV market, is proud to announce 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 Honors is a celebration of the extraordinary talent and leadership driving our industry forward,” said NATPE’s Executive Director Claire Macdonald. “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.”

The inaugural NATPE Honors awardees include:

North Star Award: Recognizes career achievements of individuals whose strong leadership has had a bar-raising impact, providing guidance as the industry navigates change.

George Levendis (Managing Director, ANT1 TV, Mak TV & Antenna Studios, Greece) – Celebrated for a commitment to innovation, an uncanny ability to adapt to emerging trends, and advocating for burgeoning talent in Greece and beyond, as well as a knack for creating key partnerships that have driven the success of multiple global hits.

Levente Málnay (Managing Director and Executive Vice President, AMC Networks International, Central and Northern Europe) – Honored for playing a pivotal role in establishing commercial television in the region after the fall of communism, and exceptional leadership across production, channel launches, and managing one of the most diverse portfolios of channels in the region.

Shift Disturber Award: Honors individuals whose bold ideas and leadership are driving transformative change.

Daniel Grunt (CEO, Nova Group) – Recognized for the incredible success of the Voyo platform, which, with an unprecedented investment in high-end original and locally relevant content, is winning ratings and subscribers whilst competing with global streamers.

Magdalena Szwedkowicz (Producer, MAG Entertainment) – Celebrated for transforming the landscape of the Polish film and television industry and for producing high-quality hits, including Forgotten Love (Znachor), Justice(Napad), Squared Love and Sleboda (Deadly Ties) that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Poland, and resonate with global viewers.

Cause + Action Award: Celebrates a purpose-led champion of change for their social good impact.

Starlight Media – Recognizing Ukraine's largest broadcasting group for supporting and amplifying the voice of veterans, notably putting a war vet in the spotlight in the most recent edition of The Bachelor.

The NATPE Honors Europe Awards will become an annual tradition, celebrating the individuals leading change across entertainment and media in the region.

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