Charis Vafias, the CEO of Vafias Group, has received the 'Dynamically Growing Entrepreneur of the Year' award at the EY 'Entrepreneur of the Year' awards for Greece 2025. The independent jury recognized Vafias for his remarkable achievements in the highly competitive maritime industry, where he has established a fleet of approximately 100 vessels. His journey began in 2000 with a vision and two old tankers, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit from a young age.

Vafias made a significant impact in the shipping sector when he led StealthGas to be listed on Nasdaq in 2005, earning the distinction of being the youngest entrepreneur to manage a listed shipping company. His strategic decisions and steady progress have helped the Vafias Group to expand, now encompassing six shipping companies, three of which are publicly listed and operate without bank debt. The group's fleet has an estimated value of $3.5 billion, a testament to Vafias's effective management and forward-thinking approach.

This award highlights the importance of innovation and resilience in entrepreneurship, particularly in challenging markets like shipping. Vafias's success story serves as an inspiration for emerging entrepreneurs in Greece and beyond, emphasizing the potential for growth even in competitive industries. His achievements reflect not only personal success but also contribute to Greece's maritime reputation on a global scale.