Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity announced its 2025 honourees - including Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados and climate advocate; World Central Kitchen (WCK), the humanitarian organisation led by Chef José Andrés; and 15-year-old innovator Heman Bekele - at a press conference held at Emirates Palace on January 31.
The award, honouring individuals and organisations for their significant contributions to societal progress, will be presented to the the winnerson February 4 at the Founder's Memorial in Abu Dhabi. The event will be streamed live on the award's social media channels at 7pm UAE time (GST).
The Zayed Award, named in honour of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the United Arab Emirates, stands as a testament to his lasting legacy, promoting values of human solidarity, peace and service to all, regardless of background.
Prime Minister Mottley is being honoured for her efforts to drive global climate action.
In 2022, she launched the Bridgetown Initiative, which advocates for urgent reform of global financial systems to address climate inequality.
Her commitment to a sustainable future includes a goal for Barbados to become 100% reliant on renewable energy by 2030, with a focus on advancing solar and wind power.
Mottley has also pioneered debt-for-climate swaps, enabling countries to repurpose national debt towards strengthening climate resilience.
Chef José Andrés' WCK has been recognised for its remarkable efforts in delivering food relief to communities impacted by crises Since its founding in 2010, WCK has delivered over 300 million meals in more than 30 countries.
WCK's agile response, especially in conflict areas like Gaza, demonstrates its effective approach to disaster relief.
Erin Gore, CEO of WCK, told Aletihad: "Food is a force for peace. It brings people together, and it is through empathy that we build relationships, especially over food.
"It is much easier to build peace than it is to start war. If we could do more breaking bread together, the world would be a far more peaceful place."
She also shared how the award elevates the work of WCK: "Receiving this award means that empathy wins. It is a recognition of the tireless work of our teams and community members. It is humbling to be on a platform like this, and it gives us hope that empathy is the solution to a better world."
Heman Bekele, the youngest honouree at 15, is an Ethiopian American boy recognised for his health innovations.
Bekele developed a soap that prevents and treats early-stage skin cancer.
"For me, winning this award means so much more than just a prize. It is a message that anything is possible," Bekele told Aletihad.
Currently, he is collaborating with researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to refine his invention and make healthcare more accessible worldwide.
Bekele shared his thoughts on fostering a culture of human fraternity: "Be creative, be innovative and understand your situation. Find ways to make an impact. For me, it was through passion and innovation, but each person's journey is unique."
His message to the younger generation is clear: "We are an innovative, creative and empathetic group of people. It is our responsibility to make change in this world."
Patricia Scotland, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations and a member of the selection committee, spoke of award's alignment with global values of tolerance and coexistence.
Of the selection process, Scotland shared to Aletihad: "We were looking for nominees who made a considerable global impact and touched lives across different cultures and regions."
Reflecting on the connection between the award and the Commonwealth's values, she added, "It aligns very nicely. Equality, harmony, respect, and making the world a better place for all people. That is the spirit of both the Commonwealth and the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity."
Scotland also expressed her hope that the award would inspire others to act.
"We are living in some dark times, but this award is a beacon of hope. It is about spreading light and the belief in our joint humanity," she said.
In a call to action, the honourees and judges stressed the importance of taking steps to foster unity.
"You can make a difference by showing kindness every day. Nothing is perfect, but you have to start somewhere," Gore said.
She also highlighted the importance of engaging with young people: "Young people today are immersed in technology and have ideas that can change the world."
Bekele echoed this sentiment, saying: "To find peace and solutions, at its core, it is about spreading awareness and advocacy."
He also noted that artificial intelligence has the potential to drive lasting change: "Technology, including AI, has the power to make the world more united."
"Much has been done to change the world, but there is still a lot left to do. I believe the upcoming generation will tackle what is yet to be addressed, continuing to create novel solutions," he concluded.
