2024-11-22 02:01:00
Rt Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, is recognized as a Champion for Global Change
Die We the people The United Nations Foundation’s Global Leadership Awards were announced today in New York City, recognizing seven exceptional honorees who have made a towering impact on the world stage.
The 2024 award winners are: Rt. Dame Jacinda Ardernformer Prime Minister of New Zealand; TIMEreceived from Jessica SibleyManaging Director; Amanda Gormanpoet and activist; Angelique KidjoGrammy winner and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador; Louise Bridgesfounder of the Cacao Project; and UN Emergency First Respondersadopted by team members of United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG).
“At this time of great consequence and change in our world, we gather to recognize extraordinary leaders who have demonstrated unique imagination, courage and determination in their communities and on the world stage,” said Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation. “These honorees show us that leadership can take many forms – from humanitarian service to community engagement to art, journalism and statecraft at the highest levels. They show that progress is most likely possible when we join forces for a common cause.”
At the award ceremony We the people Awards, named after the powerful opening words of the UN Charter, this year’s winners were recognized for their integrity, resilience and perseverance, and for their unwavering commitment to a safer, fairer and better world.
Champion for global change
- Rt. Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand In recognition of her groundbreaking and compassionate leadership, her commitment to women’s rights, the fight against climate change and the promotion of unity and peace. Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation, presented the grand prize.
Goal 17 Prize for Innovative Partnerships
- TIME In recognition of TIME’s commitment to journalistic integrity for over a century, earning a worldwide reputation as a consistent and unwavering source of truth, debate and critical thinking. Hans Vestberg, chairman and CEO of Verizon and board member of the UN Foundation, presented the award, which was accepted by Jessica Sibley, executive director of TIME.
“Unite Our Strengths” Award
- Amanda Gorman, poet and activist In recognition of her commitment to education and equality and her unparalleled ability to inspire change through the power of her words. Amina J. Mohammed, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations, presented the first prize.
SDG Vanguard Pricing
- Angélique Kidjo, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and UNICEF international ambassador In recognition of her commitment to the rights of children worldwide, her fearless and unwavering support of girls and young women across Africa, and her commitment to using her platform and voice for good. Inés Yábar, head of the UN Foundation’s Next Generation Fellows program, presented the award.
- Louise Mabulo, founder of the Cacao Project In recognition of their impactful advocacy and support for vulnerable communities affected by climate change in the Philippines and beyond through sustainable, resilient agricultural practices. Marc-André Blanchard, Executive Vice-President and Head of CDPQ Global and Global Head of Sustainability, CDPQ, and Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, United Nations Foundation, presented the award.
Each year, the UN Foundation honors the compassion, courage and determination of frontline UN staff with the UN Heroes Award. This year’s award went to UN Emergency First Responders.
- In recognition of their courageous and selfless efforts to save others during disasters, the UN Heroes Award was presented to team members of the UNDAC (United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination) system of UN OCHA and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG). Baroness Valerie Amos, Master of University College, Oxford and board member of the UN Foundation, presented the award.
The 2024 awards ceremony We the people took place at Gotham Hall in New York City. Photos, notes, transcripts and videos will be shared after the event via thePress folder provided to the UN Foundation.
About the UN Foundation For over 25 years, the UN Foundation has been building new innovations and partnerships to support the United Nations and solve global problems at scale. An independent charity, the Foundation was established to work closely with the United Nations to address humanity’s greatest challenges and advance global progress. Further information at www.unfoundation.org
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**What role do creativity and the arts play in influencing global change, according to Elizabeth Cousens?**
**Interview with Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO of the UN Foundation**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, Elizabeth. The 2024 Global Leadership Awards just took place, and it seems like a remarkable event. Can you tell us what it means to recognize leaders like Rt. Dame Jacinda Ardern and the other recipients?
**Elizabeth Cousens**: Thank you for having me! The Global Leadership Awards are a vital part of our mission at the UN Foundation. Recognizing individuals like Rt. Dame Jacinda Ardern not only honors their impactful contributions but also serves as an inspiration for others. Each recipient exemplifies courage, compassion, and determination in their respective fields, showing that impactful leadership can take many shapes.
**Interviewer**: Speaking of the awardees, what message do you think they collectively convey to the world today?
**Elizabeth Cousens**: This year’s honorees underscore the importance of unity and collective action. As we face complex global challenges, their dedication to humanitarian service, advocacy for rights, and innovative partnerships remind us that progress happens when we collaborate across sectors and boundaries. They offer hope and solutions in times when they are most needed.
**Interviewer**: The event highlighted journalists, artists, and activists. How do you see the role of creativity in driving social change?
**Elizabeth Cousens**: Creativity is an immensely powerful tool for change. As seen with individuals like Amanda Gorman, poetry and the arts can inspire, provoke thought, and mobilize communities. Journalism, as represented by TIME’s recognition, serves as a foundation for informed debate and accountability. Together, these fields foster critical discourse and empower people to take action.
**Interviewer**: It sounds like the event also focused on partnerships and innovative solutions. Why is Goal 17 of the SDGs so crucial?
**Elizabeth Cousens**: Goal 17 emphasizes the need for partnerships to achieve sustainable development goals. Collaboration is essential, especially when addressing issues like climate change, health inequities, and social justice. By building bridges among governments, NGOs, businesses, and communities, we can leverage diverse skills and resources to create innovative solutions that are more effective and sustainable.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, how do you envision the future of the UN Foundation’s efforts in supporting global leaders?
**Elizabeth Cousens**: We will continue to shine a spotlight on extraordinary leaders who are making a difference. Our mission is to empower these leaders and support their initiatives through advocacy, funding, and partnerships. By amplifying their voices and actions, we hope to inspire even greater collective efforts toward achieving a safer, fairer, and more sustainable world for all.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Elizabeth. Your insights into the significance of leadership and collaboration are truly inspiring.
**Elizabeth Cousens**: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep these conversations alive as we work towards a brighter future together!
