The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity ceremony, attended by Abdullah bin Zayed, honored Mia Amor Mottley, World Central Kitchen, and Heman Bekele for their humanitarian contributions. The event occurred on the International Day of Human Fraternity, emphasizing the collective values of coexistence and support for global issues, particularly climate action and accessibility in healthcare.
Under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah bin Zayed attended the sixth Zayed Award for Human Fraternity ceremony on February 5, 2025, held at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi. The event honored visionary leaders in humanitarian efforts, featuring global dignitaries, including the President of East Timor and the First Lady of Colombia.
The ceremony thematically named “Tapestry of Humanity” began with a performance by sight-impaired Indonesian singer Putri Ariani. It coincided with the International Day of Human Fraternity, marking the signing of the Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity, underscoring the commitment to global humanitarian values.
During the ceremony, three prominent individuals were honored: Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, recognized for her climate advocacy; World Central Kitchen, led by Chef José Andrés, honored for its humanitarian food relief efforts; and Heman Bekele, a young innovator who developed a cancer-fighting soap. Each recipient demonstrated remarkable contributions to humanity and sustainability.
Mia Amor Mottley was celebrated for her leadership through the Bridgetown Initiative, advocating for climate justice and renewable energy in Barbados. She emphasized the importance of acting for future generations and highlighted the urgency of addressing climate challenges globally.
World Central Kitchen, founded by Chef Andrés, has provided over 300 million meals globally since its inception, demonstrating strong adaptability in disaster relief. The organization has become a model for humanitarian action, offering vital assistance in emergencies.
Heman Bekele’s award is a testament to his commitment to making healthcare accessible through innovation. His project focuses on developing affordable treatments for skin cancer and aims to enhance healthcare delivery in disadvantaged communities.
Pope Francis and Grand Imam Al-Tayeb expressed their admiration for the honorees through video messages, calling for greater collaborations for peace and humanitarian relief. They emphasized the significance of their initiatives in promoting coexistence and mutual understanding in society.
The ceremony also marked the opening for nominations for the 2026 Zayed Award, inviting global nominations via their official website. The award, launched following the historic meeting between Pope Francis and Al-Tayeb, aims to uphold values of fraternity and humanitarianism, recognizing efforts globally.
Named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the award celebrates humanitarian achievements, emphasizing the importance of bridging cultural and religious divides through actionable kindness and cooperation.
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity recognizes individuals and organizations that promote humanitarian values and coexistence. Established in 2019 after a historic interfaith meeting, the award aligns with the principles outlined in the Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity. This document is a pivotal reference in advancing global humanitarian efforts and fostering greater understanding among diverse societies. The annual award ceremony serves as a platform to highlight significant contributions to humanity, emphasizing the values of tolerance and collective action toward a better future.
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity underscores the importance of recognizing and amplifying the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to humanitarian causes. This year’s honorees exemplify leadership in addressing critical issues such as climate change and healthcare access, thereby inspiring global action. The ongoing commitment to promoting human fraternity reflects the UAE’s dedication to fostering peace and humanitarianism across cultures and nations.
Original Source: www.prnewswire.com
