Celebrating Excellence: UN Foundation's 2024 Global Leadership Awards Recognize Incredible Contributions to Humanity

UN Foundation's 2024 We the Peoples Awards Honor Global Leaders

On November 21, 2024, the United Nations Foundation hosted its annual We the Peoples Global Leadership Awards Ceremony in New York City. This prestigious event recognized outstanding individuals whose efforts have significantly influenced communities worldwide. Among the seven honorees, the ceremony highlighted the commitment and impact of leaders in humanitarian work, journalism, arts, and global activism.

Honorees’ Contributions

The awards ceremony celebrated leaders such as Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, who received the Champion for Global Change award. Ardern was recognized for her empathetic leadership and dedication to women's rights, climate action, and social unity.

Additionally, TIME magazine, accepted by its CEO Jessica Sibley, garnered the Goal 17 Innovation in Partnership Award. This accolade highlighted TIME's century-long dedication to journalistic integrity and its role in fostering public discourse.

Poet and activist Amanda Gorman received the Unite our Strength Award for her dedication to education and advocacy for equality, showcasing how her words inspire action and change.

The SDG Vanguard Awards were awarded to multiple leaders: Angélique Kidjo, a Grammy-winning singer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, was honored for her unwavering support of children's rights in Africa; Louise Mabulo, recognized for her resilience and advocacy in sustainable agriculture among vulnerable communities in the Philippines. Their work not only reflects tremendous personal courage but also contributes meaningfully to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In a special recognition, the UN Heroes Award was bestowed upon the UN Emergency First Responders for their valor and dedication amid disasters. Accepting on behalf of these heroes were team members from the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). This award underscores the critical and often dangerous work these teams undergo to save lives during emergencies.

Remarks from Leaders

Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation, emphasized the importance of recognizing extraordinary leaders during unprecedented times. She stated, "These honorees exhibit that leadership can take many forms and emerges from various sectors, including humanitarian service, community activism, and media. Their efforts remind us that collective strength can drive significant global progress."

The Significance of the Awards

The We the Peoples Awards, derived from the opening words of the UN Charter, serve as a testament to the commitment to global cooperation and humanitarian efforts. Each honoree embodies the values of determination, integrity, and resilience.

Through these recognitions, the UN Foundation aims to inspire a new generation of leaders and engage a broader audience in the vital issues of our time, such as climate change, inequality, and human rights.

The 2024 ceremony concluded at Gotham Hall, providing a platform for these remarkable individuals to share their insights and inspire attendees. As the UN Foundation continues its mission, supporters and partners are invited to contribute to solutions for the world's challenges.

For further information about the event and the honorees, multimedia resources including photos and videos will be available in the UN Foundation's press kit following the event. This initiative reflects over 25 years of the UN Foundation's commitment to fostering innovative partnerships and addressing humanity’s greatest challenges comprehensively.

To learn more about the UN Foundation’s ongoing efforts and initiatives, please visit www.unfoundation.org.