Dr. Jamal Eltaeb Receives 2025 Aurora Prize for Humanitarian Efforts

Dr. Jamal Eltaeb Receives the 2025 Aurora Prize for Humanitarian Efforts

On November 10, 2025, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative proudly announced Dr. Jamal Eltaeb as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. This award, valued at one million dollars, recognizes individuals who risk their lives to save others, emphasizing courage and devotion in the face of adversity. During a turbulent civil war in Sudan and nearly complete collapse of the country's healthcare system, Dr. Eltaeb managed to keep Al Nao Hospital operational in Omdurman, providing essential medical care and saving hundreds of lives amidst chaos.

"In my childhood, I witnessed how fragile life can be and how one person's knowledge and care can make a difference. I aspired to be a doctor because I wanted to serve people in their most vulnerable times," said Dr. Eltaeb, highlighting the motivation behind his tireless dedication. This year's Aurora Prize aims to inspire doctors, teachers, humanitarian workers, and ordinary people globally, reminding them that their efforts matter. It serves as a powerful reminder that one person's courage can spark significant change.

Noubar Afeyan, the co-founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, stated, "In a world where indifference spreads and compassion is under pressure, Dr. Eltaeb stands as living proof that humanity is not lost. He reminds us that the humanitarian spirit must prevail, and we are all responsible for keeping it alive."

The announcement of this esteemed laureate took place during the Aurora Prize ceremony held on Ellis Island, a symbol of refuge and renewal. This event commemorates ten years of consistent efforts by Aurora to highlight grassroots humanitarian workers. Dr. Eltaeb was selected from over 800 nominations through an extensive evaluation process. In addition to honoring his remarkable work, the prize money aims to bolster both his endeavors and support local leaders committed to aiding communities in distress.

Lord Ara Darzi, the chair of the Aurora Prize selection committee, commented, "Faced with unimaginable dangers and shortages, Dr. Eltaeb exemplifies what true humanitarian leadership looks like. Aurora is honored to support his mission and to celebrate the resilience of those enduring conflict. His selflessness reminds us that even amidst war, humanity can triumph."

Since the escalation of conflict in Sudan in April 2023, Dr. Eltaeb has faced repeated bombardments, infrastructure collapse, and acute shortages of electricity and medical supplies, including anesthesia. Despite these challenges, he prioritized care for hundreds of injured and critically ill patients. Under his leadership, Al Nao Hospital emerged as a lifeline for the community, exemplifying resilience, solidarity, and unwavering dedication to saving lives under the most daunting conditions.

Chelsea Clinton, a member of the Aurora Prize selection committee, remarked, "Dr. Eltaeb embodies the principle of rejecting indifference. His commitment to humanity transcends mere survival—he maintains a crucial line of dignity and community care during one of Sudan's most devastating conflicts."

During the ceremony, other exceptional Aurora humanitarian workers for 2025, including Sally Becker, Dr. Zouhair Lahna, and Dr. Jill Seaman, were also honored, alongside esteemed philanthropists such as Henrietta H. Fore, Graça Machel, Michael Milken, and David Rubenstein, who embody the core value of Aurora: 'Gratitude in Action.'

The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, now celebrating its ten-year milestone, is a flagship initiative of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, founded in remembrance of those who survived the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors. Aurora amplifies the voices of frontline workers in humanitarian crises, providing them with resources to extend their impactful work through its initiative, Gratitude in Action. Aurora is rooted in the belief that every humanitarian worker is a person, and within every person lies a humanitarian worker, inspiring courage and kindness worldwide.

About the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative enhances life-saving efforts by celebrating and supporting remarkable humanitarian workers around the globe. Established in honor of survivors of the Armenian Genocide and gratitude for their saviors, Aurora has built a global network of support over the past decade, assisting more than 3.5 million individuals affected by humanitarian crises. By financially supporting humanitarian workers worldwide who perpetuate the cycle of selfless aid, Aurora contributes to the advancement of humanitarian actions into the future. For more information, visit www.AuroraHumanitarian.org.