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

2025 Sunhak Peace Prize: Recognizing Champions for Global Change

The prestigious Sunhak Peace Prize ceremony took place on April 11, 2025, at the Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel World in Seoul, South Korea. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the award, which celebrates extraordinary leadership in sustainable development, global citizenship, and educational innovation. The ceremony drew over 750 international guests, including world leaders, former heads of state, and prominent figures from civil society, all gathered to honor the impactful contributions of three outstanding leaders.

Among the distinguished recipients was Wanjira Mathai from Kenya, honored for her exceptional leadership in environmental preservation. Notably recognized for her initiative AFR100 and the Green Belt Movement, she has played a vital role in restoring the environment across Africa, with the ambitious planting of over 51 million trees to rejuvenate degraded landscapes.

Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen from Australia, was awarded for his unwavering commitment to global citizenship. Under his guidance, the organization has mobilized more than $43 billion, directly impacting the lives of over 1.3 billion people worldwide. Global Citizen tackles critical issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and access to essential services, making significant strides toward improving global conditions.

The award for transforming higher education in Africa was presented to Patrick Awuah Jr., founder of Ashesi University in Ghana. His visionary leadership has introduced innovative curricula that prioritize ethics, gender equality, critical thinking, and leadership. Ashesi University has gained recognition as a trailblazing institution that produces graduates capable of leading positive social change not just in Africa but across the globe.

Additionally, the Founders' Prize was awarded to former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan for his role in promoting peaceful democratic reforms and good governance. Samuel Radebe from South Africa was also recognized for his dedication to interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence among communities. However, the awarding of the prize to East Timorese Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão was postponed due to unavoidable circumstances.

In a congratulatory speech, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed, "On this tenth anniversary, the Sunhak Peace Prize continues to support the invaluable contributions of unsung heroes towards global peace and solidarity. I commend the laureates for their inspiring dedication and extend my heartfelt gratitude to the founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, for her visionary leadership and steadfast support of efforts to achieve peace worldwide."

The Sunhak Peace Prize is not just an award; it symbolizes a commitment to a better future through recognizing those whose efforts may go unnoticed. For more information about the prize, visit www.sunhakpeaceprize.org or contact the Sunhak Peace Prize Secretariat at info@sunhakpeaceprize.org.