Celebrating Global Leaders: UN Foundation 'We the Peoples' Awards 2024 Honorees Announced in New York

UN Foundation 'We the Peoples' Awards 2024

On November 22, 2024, the UN Foundation hosted the We the Peoples Global Leadership Awards at Gotham Hall in New York City. This prestigious event acknowledged seven extraordinary leaders who have made significant contributions on the world stage. The honorees were recognized for their incredible courage, dedication, and impact on society.

Among the recipients was Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, who was awarded for her pioneering and compassionate leadership, advocacy for women's rights, and commitment to climate action. Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation, presented the award, emphasizing that leadership can manifest in various forms, including humanitarian service, artistic expression, journalism, and high-level diplomacy.

Another notable winner was TIME magazine, recognized for its unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity throughout the past century. The award was presented by Hans Vestberg, Chairman and CEO of Verizon, to Jessica Sibley, the magazine's CEO.

Poet and activist Amanda Gorman was honored for her advocacy of education and equality, with the award being presented by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed. Gorman's powerful words have inspired countless individuals to strive for change and make a difference in their communities.

The award for contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) was given to Grammy-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, who has passionately advocated for children's rights and championed the cause of girls and women in Africa. Inés Yábar, Head of the Next Generation Fellows Program at the UN Foundation, presented this award.

Louise Mabulo, founder of the Cacao Project, was recognized for her tireless efforts in supporting vulnerable communities in the Philippines dealing with climate change through sustainable practices. This award was presented by Marc-André Blanchard, Executive Vice President at CDPQ.

Additionally, the UN Foundation honored emergency responders, acknowledging their courageous and selfless work during disasters. The team from UN OCHA's Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) system and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) were recognized, with the award presented by Baroness Valerie Amos, Master of University College at Oxford.

The ceremony was a celebration of leadership in all its forms, highlighting that significant progress can be made when individuals unite for a common cause. The 2024 We the Peoples Awards exemplify the spirit of collaboration and innovation needed to tackle the world's most pressing challenges.

The UN Foundation, operating for over 25 years, has been instrumental in fostering partnerships to support the UN in addressing global issues on a large scale. As an independent charitable organization, the foundation closely collaborates with the UN to tackle humanity's greatest challenges and promote global progress. For more information, visit www.unfoundation.org.