Global Citizen, a leading advocacy organization, has announced the winners of its annual Global Citizen Prize and Cisco Youth Leadership Award. Six young, trailblazing changemakers will be celebrated for their exceptional work in tackling poverty, climate change, and social justice issues. These dedicated individuals are not only inspiring hope in their communities, but also paving the way for a more just and equitable world.

Celebrating Changemakers Around the Globe

The prestigious Global Citizen Prize recognizes individuals who champion the world’s most vulnerable populations. This year’s awardees represent five crucial categories that directly affect the fight against poverty: gender equity, civic space, climate change, food and nutrition, and health and vaccines.

• Andrew Ddembe (Uganda): Founder of the Mobiklinic Foundation, which provides mobile health services in underserved communities, ensuring access to critical healthcare for those who need it most.
• Lydia Charles Moyo (Tanzania): Founder of Her Initiative and Panda Digital, which empowers women and girls through education and technology. By breaking down barriers and promoting digital literacy, Moyo equips women with the tools they need to reach their full potential and contribute to their communities’ economic growth.
• Olivier Bahemuke Ndoole (Democratic Republic of Congo): Co-founder of Alerte Congolaise pour l’Environnement et les Droits de l’Homme, an environmental rights organization. Ndoole’s courageous work protects the environment and ensures the rights of local communities, safeguarding their livelihoods and fostering sustainable development.
• Sophie Healy-Thow (Ireland): Founder of Act4Food and Global Youth Campaigns Coordinator for the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. Healy-Thow is a champion for food security and proper nutrition, advocating for policies and initiatives that ensure everyone has access to healthy and affordable food.
• Vishal Prasad (Fiji): Campaign Director of Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change. As the Pacific Islands face the harsh realities of climate change, Prasad mobilizes young people to advocate for climate action and hold world leaders accountable for protecting their island nations.

Each winner receives a year-long support program from Global Citizen, providing them with valuable resources, mentorship, and a platform to further amplify their work. Additionally, a cash grant is awarded to their organization, fueling their continued efforts to create positive change.

Empowering Young Leaders: The Cisco Youth Leadership Award

The Cisco Youth Leadership Award recognizes a young person (aged 18-30) making a significant impact on global challenges. This year’s recipient is Ricardo Enrique Alba Torres from Colombia.

Ricardo is the co-founder and CEO of Eko Group H2O+, a social enterprise on a mission to provide environmentally friendly water access solutions. Through Eko Group H2O+, Ricardo has helped over 15,000 people gain access to clean water and sanitation facilities. He has also raised awareness about water scarcity and pollution, particularly in vulnerable communities across Latin America. In recognition of his impactful work, Ricardo receives a $250,000 grant to support Eko Group H2O+’s continued growth and expand their reach to those most in need.

A Call to Action: Global Citizen NOW Summit

The Global Citizen Prize ceremony takes place during the Global Citizen NOW summit in New York City on May 1st, 2024. This two-day event serves as a powerful platform for global collaboration. World leaders, activists, businesses, and philanthropists come together to discuss pressing issues, strategize solutions, and take concrete steps towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

“We need to support young leaders who are taking action now,” said Liza Henshaw, President of Global Citizen. “These changemakers are dedicated to uplifting their communities and fighting extreme poverty. By recognizing and empowering them, we invest in a brighter future for all.”

Source: Vanguard