2025 IBM Champions Unveiled, and Now They’re Easier to Find
Bolstered by a new directory, the advocacy program welcomes newly minted IBM evangelists and embraces returning honorees
2025 IBM Champions Unveiled, and Now They’re Easier to Find
IBM revealed its 2025 class of IBM Champions this month, celebrating more than 1,400 advocates who have demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication within the IBM ecosystem. Coming from 66 countries, this year’s honorees represent a blend of continuity and fresh perspectives—64% are returning Champions and 36% are newly minted.
Recognizing Excellence in Advocacy
The IBM Champions program highlights individuals who go beyond their daily roles to share knowledge, mentor others and contribute to the technical community. These advocates work across a range of focus areas, from cloud computing, to IBM Z and Power systems, to sustainability.
Champions are renowned not only for their technical expertise but also for their roles as educators, consultants and community leaders. They contribute through blogs, podcasts, user groups, speaking engagements, research and more, positioning themselves as pivotal figures shaping the future of IBM technologies.
For these distinguished individuals, the program offers a mix of rewards. In addition to the enhanced visibility and recognition within the industry, Perks include complimentary passes to IBM TechXchange 2025, exclusive IBM Champion gear, certification vouchers and access to a global network of like-minded professionals.
New Champions Directory
A key highlight of this year’s program is the introduction of the IBM Champions Directory, a new tool designed to connect community members with these expert advocates. Hosted on the refreshed IBM Champions homepage, the directory makes it easy to tap into a vast network of talent and innovation.
Users can search and filter Champions by location, technical expertise and preferred advocacy activities. Each profile provides in-depth details, including bios, community contributions and links to social profiles. Whether seeking a mentor, a collaborator or an event speaker, the directory aims to make it easier to make meaningful connections.
A Pathway for Aspiring Champions
Aspiring Champions can take steps toward that goal through the Rising Champions Advocacy Badge Program, launched in 2023. This initiative invites individuals to build advocacy portfolios by contributing to the tech community as they earn recognition through badges.
With more than 4,550 badges issued, the program is creating a pipeline of future Champions by encouraging ongoing engagement and impactful contributions, giving newcomers the opportunity to establish themselves within the IBM community.
Upcoming Virtual Event
The IBM community is invited to celebrate the 2025 Champions at the virtual event, “Meet & Celebrate IBM Champions Class of 2025,” on Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. EST. Attendees will have the chance to hear directly from Champions, learn about their journeys and explore how to join this exclusive program.