Subtle Eneries founder Farida Irani has become the first-ever recipient of the 'Legend of Industry' Award, unveiled at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Awards in Margaret River, Western Australia.

Presented during the Gala Dinner at Aravina Estate, the honour recognises an individual whose contribution has shaped the spa and wellness sector over a lifetime. Unlike other categories, the award cannot be entered or nominated for, and Irani was unaware she would be receiving the accolade.

A clinical aromatherapist, Ayurveda practitioner and educator, Irani has spent more than three decades developing what became the globally recognised Subtle Energies brand, while continuing to treat clients through her Sydney clinic.

Accepting the award, she said:

"I felt totally humbled. Life itself is a learning experience, and receiving this makes me look at how I can improve who I am and how I can better serve our wider community. I am first a practitioner, above everything else."

The evening proved to be a triple celebration for Subtle Energies, which was also named Best Spa Skincare Brand and won Best Spa Experience for its Vagus Vitality treatment.

Today, the Australian-founded company partners with more than 70 luxury hotel spas across 30 countries, including Six Senses, Mandarin Oriental, The Peninsula and One&Only.

Commenting on the surprise recognition, Subtle Energies Co-Founder and CEO Nick Irani said:

"None of us knew it was coming, Mum included. It was a humbling and proud moment for our whole family. Through it all, her warmth, wisdom and genuine care for people have remained at the heart of everything we do."

The awards concluded the two-day Wellness Summit at Pullman Bunker Bay, which attracted delegates from around the world and generated more than 10,000 consumer votes.