This year, the esteemed Diamond Leaf Awards from the Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) were presented to remarkable representatives from Belgium and Azerbaijan
This year, the esteemed Diamond Leaf Awards from the Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) were presented to remarkable representatives from Belgium and Azerbaijan. This prestigious award, organized by CSWC in collaboration with Cigar Club Mareva, recognizes extraordinary contributions in two key categories: Best Ambassador and Best Qualifier of the Year. These awards symbolize the deepest gratitude of CSWC to individuals and organizations who elevate the event’s standards, image, and spirit globally.
In a ceremony led by the charismatic Gino Rossano Ianillo, a dedicated CSWC ambassador and Club Mareva member, the awards were given to representatives who had made an exceptional impact in promoting the CSWC. This year, Belgium's Thomass Gonissen and Dinny Vandamme were celebrated for their incredible efforts as Best Qualifiers. Despite stringent restrictions, Gonissen and Vandamme have gathered a devoted following over the past three years, bringing nearly 70 participants together annually to celebrate CSWC Day. Their commitment has set a new benchmark for qualifiers worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Best Ambassador title went to Evgeniy Zhidkov, a figure who has been instrumental in raising the CSWC profile across Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Known as the "King of CSWC" in this region, Zhidkov has organized multiple pre-qualification events and CSWC activities, firmly establishing a thriving CSWC culture across these countries.
Though CSWC acknowledges that all participants—judges, organizers, and qualifiers—play a vital role in advancing its mission, the organization chose to honor those whose efforts stood out in an exceptional way this year. Through these awards, CSWC continues its tradition of recognizing the dedication that shapes the Cigar Smoking World Championship into a world-class experience.