UMAR Shipping Services Ltd, part of the UW Group, is proud to announce that it has been awarded with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Best Practices Award (Medium Enterprises category) at the 4th CSR Best Practices Awards, organised by CSR Cyprus.
This distinction honours the company’s flagship initiative, UW Galaxy, developed through the Life Jacket Foundation. The event took place during the 17th Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility Conference, on September 25th, 2025, at Zena Palace in Nicosia.
About UW Galaxy
UW Galaxy was created to reduce single-use plastic bags while raising funds to support children in need. The campaign introduced reusable, foldable shopping bags, available in four unique marine-inspired designs — turtle, octopus, whale, and seahorse.
Each bag carried the message: “The expression of our love for the sea and its creatures. A medium to help children in need and nurture the next generation of seafarers.”
The bags were sold for just €3, with 100% of proceeds dedicated to supporting children with financial, medical, and educational needs. Through UW Galaxy, all the funds raised were donated directly to schools and child welfare organisations.

A Collective Effort
The initiative was embraced wholeheartedly by UW Group’s people, partners, and the wider community. Beyond fundraising, UW Galaxy raised awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and fostering a culture of sustainability linked to the maritime industry.
Recognition
Accepting the award on behalf of the company, UW Group COO, Vangelis Tsangarides stated: “UMAR Shipping Services, as a key pillar of UW Group, proves that true success is not measured only in financial terms, but also in society impact. Through the Life Jacket Foundation we support children and childcare organisations in Cyprus. With the UW Galaxy campaign we cultivate ecological awareness and contribute to reducing the use of plastic bags. Every bag purchased, every child who smiles, is proof that when we join forces, we can shape a better tomorrow”.
For more information about the Life Jacket Foundation, visit www.lifejacketfoundation.com.