From September 28 – October 1, 2025, Emerge Freight Alliance brought together over 200 global freight forwarders and logistics professionals at the Hilton Istanbul Bomonti for its 3rd Annual Partnership Meeting, a gathering that truly reflected the alliance’s growing influence and unity.

Over four inspiring days, delegates engaged in dynamic plenary sessions, thought-provoking panel discussions, and strategic one-on-one meetings that sparked new partnerships and strengthened existing bonds. This year’s meeting placed a powerful spotlight on Africa’s logistics potential, highlighting Emerge’s mission to connect African freight forwarders with global trade networks and foster inclusive growth across regions. As the curtains closed, Emerge Freight Alliance continues to be a driving force for collaboration, innovation, and connectivity in the global freight community.

A heartfelt thank you to all members, partners, and sponsors who made this milestone gathering truly remarkable.

The 3rd Annual Partnership Meeting began with a thrilling twist, our Spooky Welcome Cocktail!

Members from across the globe gathered for an evening of eerie elegance and energizing connections. Behind the playful costumes and hauntingly good cocktails was a deeper purpose,  to reignite relationships, welcome new faces into the Emerge family, and set the collaborative spirit that defines our network in motion. The night was a celebration of how far we’ve come and the exciting partnerships waiting to unfold in the days ahead. It reminded us that while our businesses span continents, our community thrives on shared moments, laughter, and trust built beyond the boardroom.

A heartfelt thank you to Oscar Yilmaz of Logik Freight International Ltd (Australia) for sponsoring this unforgettable evening and helping us kick off our Istanbul journey in such a spirited and magical way!

The session commenced with Network Updates, highlighting key milestones, new initiatives, and the continued growth of the Emerge Freight Alliance. This was followed by an insightful presentation on “The Future of AI for Freight Forwarders” by Kunal Maheshwari, offering a forward-looking perspective on how technology is transforming the logistics landscape. A dynamic Panel Discussion on Emerging Markets then brought together speakers from TFS, Emerge, and WOF, who shared valuable insights on the opportunities and challenges shaping global trade across regions.

The plenary took a moment to recognize and honor outstanding members for their dedication and impact within the network. The awards and recognitions included the Loyalty Award presented to Seaworld Shipping (Turkey), represented by Gamze Devri; and the Ambassador Awards presented to TM Multimodal (Ethiopia) represented by Tesafaye Gelan and Meron Kebede; Toplink Consolidators (Kenya) represented by Grace Kimani; Logix Solutions (South Africa) represented by Louis Leibenberg; Marinair Freight (Tanzania) represented by Hussein Zavery and George Philip; and finally, GESECO (Burundi) represented by Jean Claude Nsambina. Each honoree was celebrated for exemplifying commitment, collaboration, and connectivity. Carrying very values that defined Emerge Freight Alliance.

The Emerge Plenary captured the spirit of the alliance and forward-thinking, united, and driven to move global freight together.

The face-to-face meetings where introductions transformed into partnerships and conversations evolved into collaboration. Delegates from across the globe engaged in focused one-on-one sessions, exploring synergies, strengthening alliances, and uncovering new business opportunities. These meaningful encounters not only advanced partnerships but also reaffirmed Emerge’s commitment to building a global network driven by personal connection and collective progress.

Together, we continue to move forward with one conversation, one partnership, one success at a time.

As the sun set over Istanbul, delegates set sail for The Emerge Sunset cruise at Golden Hour an evening of connection, celebration, and stunning views. Surrounded by golden skies, members shared laughter, stories, and future collaborations.

This golden-hour cruise wasn’t just a scenic escape,  it was a symbol of unity and the spirit of partnership that defines the Emerge community. As the waves shimmered and conversations flowed, new friendships and business ties were forged, making it a truly unforgettable highlight of the 3rd Annual Partnership Meeting.

Big thanks to our Sunset Cruise Sponsor, NVOxpress of Portugal, for making this social event more than a scenic escape, but a reflection of Emerge’s spirit where meaningful connections shine brightest at sunset.

After a productive day of one-on-one meetings, our global partners gathered for the Closing Happy Hour, marking the perfect finale to the 3rd Annual Partnership Meeting in Istanbul.

It was a relaxed and joyful moment, a time to celebrate new collaborations, and strengthen the friendships that make the Emerge Freight Alliance truly special.
As we wrapped up this incredible journey in the heart of Istanbul, we raised our glasses to another successful year of connection, growth, and shared success.

Until we meet again at our next gathering! Here’s to moving freight forward, together!