The Kyiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry has awarded its highest honor for foreign nationals to Michael Hutchison, Co-Founder and CEO of inGroup International, recognizing his significant personal contributions to charitable initiatives and sustained cooperation with the Chamber during Ukraine's challenging period. The award specifically acknowledges Hutchison's unwavering support for Ukraine, Ukrainian inCruises Partners and Members, and the charitable foundation Stand with Ukraine, established under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Ukraine.
Valeriy Korol, Vice President for International Relations of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that Hutchison's assistance has directly helped more than 800 Ukrainian children deeply affected by the war. "Together with the families of these children, we recognize Michael's civic commitment and the humanist principles he upholds," Korol said. The children helped through this program are evacuated from frontline regions or returned from occupied territories, with many having lost their homes, sense of safety, and in some cases, one or both parents.
The Stand with Ukraine foundation provides critical psychological and physical rehabilitation services for children affected by the ongoing conflict. Hutchison's involvement extends beyond financial support, as he has traveled twice to Ukraine to visit the children's rehabilitation camp. During these visits, he participated in therapeutic activities and workshops, engaged in creative and recreational programs, and shared moments of connection designed to foster healing, hope, and resilience.
"Receiving this honor from the Kyiv Chamber of Commerce and Industry is humbling and meaningful," Hutchison expressed. "The courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people, especially the children who have endured so much, continue to inspire me every day. I'm grateful for the opportunity to support the Stand with Ukraine foundation and work alongside so many dedicated individuals helping restore hope, healing, and a sense of possibility for these children."
This recognition highlights the growing importance of corporate social responsibility in global business operations, particularly during humanitarian crises. The award demonstrates how business leaders can leverage their resources and influence to make meaningful impacts in conflict zones, setting a precedent for other international executives. For the travel industry specifically, this acknowledgment reinforces the sector's potential to contribute to global humanitarian efforts beyond traditional business operations.
The implications extend to corporate governance standards, as stakeholders increasingly expect business leaders to engage in substantive humanitarian work alongside profit generation. Hutchison's recognition by a major European chamber of commerce suggests a shifting paradigm where business success is measured not only by financial metrics but also by positive social impact. This development may influence how other travel companies approach their corporate social responsibility programs, particularly in regions affected by conflict or natural disasters.
inGroup International's travel division, inCruises, operates as the world's largest subscription-based travel club, having booked more than 600,000 guests since launching in 2016. The company offers nearly 200,000 cruise, hotel, and resort options worldwide through a platform available in 17 languages. The organization's commitment to humanitarian efforts extends beyond Ukraine, as the company actively supports Mercy Ships and other global initiatives, positioning corporate citizenship as integral to its business model rather than peripheral philanthropy.
