#South Korea #Seoul #Global Citizen #Sunhak Peace Prize #Ashesi University

Celebrating Global Change: The 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize

On April 11, 2025, the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee hosted its annual ceremony at the Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel World in Seoul, commemorating a decade of impactful contributions to global peace and development. This prestigious event attracted over 750 esteemed guests, including world leaders, former heads of state, and influential figures from civil society, marking a significant milestone in honoring exceptional achievements in sustainability and social innovation.

The ceremony awarded three distinguished leaders: Wanjira Mathai, Hugh Evans, and Patrick Awuah Jr. Their remarkable accomplishments reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability, global citizenship, and educational reform, illustrating the profound impact of their work on communities around the world.

Honoree Highlights

Wanjira Mathai, a trailblazer from Kenya, was recognized for her visionary leadership in environmental conservation, particularly through initiatives like the AFR100 and the renowned Green Belt Movement. Her relentless dedication has led to the planting of over 51 million trees, effectively rejuvenating degraded landscapes and promoting biodiversity across Africa. Her efforts serve as an inspiring model of grassroots activism harnessing community efforts to combat climate change.

Hugh Evans, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, received accolades for his unwavering commitment to tackling poverty and promoting essential global issues. Under his guidance, Global Citizen has successfully mobilized over $43 billion, improving the lives of more than 1.3 billion individuals worldwide. His work transcends borders, empowering citizens to take action on pressing global challenges, including health crises and educational disparities.

Patrick Awuah Jr., the founder of Ashesi University in Ghana, was honored for his transformative role in African higher education. His pioneering approach to curriculum development emphasizes ethics, gender equality, critical thinking, and leadership skills, preparing graduates to drive meaningful societal changes. Under his leadership, Ashesi University has become a beacon of progress and a testament to the potential of educational reform in fostering responsible and engaged future leaders.

Founders' Award Recognitions

Additionally, the Founders' Award acknowledged the contributions of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, celebrated for his dedication to peaceful democratic transitions, and South African religious leader Samuel Radebe, recognized for fostering interreligious harmony and community peace. The awarding of the Founders' Award to Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances but remains noteworthy.

During the ceremony, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon shared heartfelt remarks, stating, "On this 10th anniversary, the Sunhak Peace Prize continues to highlight the invaluable work of unsung heroes in the realm of global peace and solidarity. I commend the laureates for their inspiring dedication and extend my gratitude to Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon for her visionary leadership and support of global peace efforts."

The Sunhak Peace Prize not only recognizes outstanding achievements but also emphasizes the critical importance of collective action in addressing global challenges. It serves as a reminder that each effort, no matter how small, contributes to a greater vision for a more peaceful and sustainable world. For more information about the Sunhak Peace Prize and its impactful work, please visit Sunhak Peace Prize website.