Celebrating Global Leadership: The UN Foundation's We the Peoples Awards 2024

UN Foundation's We the Peoples Awards 2024

On November 22, 2024, Gotham Hall in New York City became the stage for the United Nations Foundation's prestigious We the Peoples Global Leadership Awards. This annual ceremony celebrates exceptional individuals and organizations from around the world who have made significant contributions to humanitarian efforts, social justice, and global sustainability.

This year, the awards recognized seven remarkable honorees whose unwavering commitment and impactful work have sparked global change, making this event a testament to leadership in various forms.

Notable Honorees

Among the distinguished awardees was Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand. She was honored as the Champion for Global Change, a recognition of her compassionate and progressive leadership, particularly her efforts in advocating for women's rights, addressing climate change, and promoting unity and peace throughout her term. Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation, presented this esteemed award, highlighting how Ardern exemplifies the qualities of transparency, empathy, and resilience.

Another significant recognition was awarded to the renowned publication TIME, accepted by its CEO Jessica Sibley. TIME received the Goal 17 Innovation in Partnership Award, acknowledging its long-standing commitment to journalistic integrity and its role in facilitating informed discourse on pressing global issues. This award was presented by Hans Vestberg, the Chairman and CEO of Verizon and a board member of the UN Foundation.

Amanda Gorman, celebrated poet and activist, received the inaugural Unite Our Strength Award. This accolade reflects her vital advocacy for education, equity, and social justice, alongside her incredible ability to inspire change through her evocative poetry. The award was presented by Amina J. Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

In the category of SDG Vanguard Awards, Angélique Kidjo, the Grammy-winning singer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and Louise Mabulo, founder of the Cacao Project, were both recognized for their outstanding contributions. Kidjo's efforts to defend children's rights and support young women in Africa were lauded, while Mabulo was celebrated for her innovative agricultural practices benefitting communities affected by climate change in the Philippines. Presenting these awards were leaders from the UN Foundation, who highlighted their vital support to vulnerable populations globally.

Honoring Frontline Workers

Among the most poignant moments of the evening was the recognition of UN Emergency First Responders with the UN Heroes Award. This accolade honors the bravery and dedication of the UN's disaster response teams, recognized for their selfless actions during times of crisis. The award was presented to members of the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) by Baroness Valerie Amos from the University of Oxford and a UN Foundation board member.

The ceremony not only brought together a diverse group of leaders but also reaffirmed the importance of collaboration and unity in addressing the world's challenges. Elizabeth Cousens remarked, “These honorees show us that leadership takes many forms — from humanitarian service to community activism.” Their stories inspire a renewed commitment to working together for a safer, fairer, and more sustainable world.

In conclusion, the 2024 We the Peoples Awards highlighted the power of individual actions in crafting a better future for all. For over 25 years, the UN Foundation has initiated innovative partnerships that drive global progress, making events like these crucial for fostering awareness and inspiring action among people worldwide. As we commemorate these leaders' dedication, it is essential to recognize the barriers they have overcome and the barriers that still exist, collectively striving for a world of equality and opportunity for all.