Escola awards the Areté Excellence distinction to Antonio Pedevilla of Grandi Navi Veloci
In an emotional ceremony held at the headquarters of the Port Authority of Barcelona, Antonio Pedevilla, a member of the Escola Europea’s executive board for 18 years and a key figure in the maritime sector, received the Areté Excellence distinction. This award recognises the dedication, commitment, and efforts of individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the Escola Europea.
The award was presented by José Alberto Carbonell, president of the Port of Barcelona and the Escola Europea, in the presence of Eduard Rodés, director of the Escola; Matteo de Candia, director of GNV Spain and successor to Antonio Pedevilla on the executive board; Simone Del Vecchio, also from GNV; and Marta Miquel from the Escola Europea.
In addition to being one of the driving forces behind the Escola’s first training courses, Antonio Pedevilla stood out as a professor and ambassador of the organisation, working closely with Grandi Navi Veloci under the presidencies of Aldo Grimaldi, Roberto Martinoli, and Matteo Catani. His work was essential in facilitating the delivery of courses onboard GNV vessels, making him a key figure in the Escola’s internationalisation efforts in Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, and contributing to the success of its training programmes.
During the ceremony, Eduard Rodés stated: “With our gratitude, recognition, and friendship, we hope Antonio receives this distinction with the same affection with which we present it today. His legacy will continue to inspire those of us who are part of this great family.”
The event also marked the beginning of a new chapter with the appointment of Matteo de Candia to the Escola Europea’s executive board, further strengthening Grandi Navi Veloci’s commitment to education in the port logistics sector.
It is worth noting that previous recipients of this prestigious award include Joaquim Coello (founding president), Aldo Grimaldi (president of GNV – in memoriam), Luigi Ranauro (founding board member representing Grimaldi), Sixte Cambra (president of the Port of Barcelona), and José Anselmo Laranjeira (DG-MOVE of the European Union).
With this distinction, the Escola Europea reaffirms its mission to recognise and honour individuals who, through their dedication, drive excellence and sustainability in logistics and intermodal transport.