Sunhak Peace Prize 2025 Honors Leaders for Global Transformations

Sunhak Peace Prize 2025 Honors Visionary Leaders

The Sunhak Peace Prize ceremony took place on April 11, 2025, at the prestigious Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel World in Seoul, South Korea. This year’s event celebrated the tenth anniversary of the prize by honoring three influential leaders for their remarkable contributions to sustainable development, global citizenship, and educational innovation. The ceremony attracted over 750 distinguished guests, including former heads of state, global leaders, and notable figures from civil society.

Celebrating Environmental Leadership

This year, Kenyan environmentalist Wanjira Mathai was recognized for her extraordinary efforts in promoting environmental sustainability. She spearheaded initiatives such as AFR100 and the Green Belt Movement, leading to the planting of over 51 million trees to rehabilitate degraded landscapes across Africa. Her unwavering commitment to restoring the environment has set a benchmark for environmental activism globally.

Commitment to Global Citizenship

Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen, was honored for his dedication to the cause of global citizenship. Under his leadership, Global Citizen raised over $43 billion to combat poverty and enhance access to health care, education, and essential services. His initiatives have positively impacted over 1.3 billion lives worldwide, providing critical resources and mobilizing citizens for global action.

Transforming Higher Education

Patrick Awuah Jr., founder of Ashesi University in Ghana, received recognition for his transformative work in African higher education. Awuah’s innovative curriculum emphasizes ethics, gender equality, critical thinking, and leadership, equipping graduates to lead positive social change across Africa and beyond. Ashesi University has emerged as a pioneering institution, setting new standards for educational excellence in the region.

Special Recognition

The Founders’ Award was presented to Goodluck Jonathan, the former President of Nigeria, for his contributions to democratic governance and peaceful transitions in leadership. Additionally, Samuel Radebe from South Africa was honored for his dedication to inter-religious harmony. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Founders’ Award to Xanana Gusmão, the Prime Minister of East Timor, was postponed.

A Message from Ban Ki-moon

Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who also attended the ceremony, emphasized the significance of recognizing unsung heroes in the pursuit of international peace and solidarity. He extended heartfelt gratitude to the laureates for their inspiring dedication and commended Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, the founder of the Sunhak Peace Prize, for her visionary leadership and unwavering support for global peace initiatives.

This decade of recognizing significant contributions through the Sunhak Peace Prize serves as a compelling reminder of the power of individual action in addressing global challenges. The award continues to inspire change-makers around the world to strive for a better future for all.

For more information about the Sunhak Peace Prize, please visit www.sunhakpeaceprize.org.