WANGO Awards
WANGO Awards
WANGO Awards are prestigious honors given by the World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (WANGO) to NGOs and individuals worldwide for exceptional service, innovation, and leadership in advancing peace and global well-being. These awards recognize humanitarian, environmental, educational, and peace-building efforts, highlighting both major international groups and smaller, impactful NGOs, with specific honors like the Universal Peace Award for individuals and categories for different causes.
| Sl | Name | Country | Flag | Year | Awarded For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | Jerry Inzerillo | United States | 2021 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 38 | Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi | UAE | 2016 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 37 | World Information Transfer | United States | 2013 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 36 | Ibrahim Gambari | Nigeria | 2011 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 35 | International Foundation for Education and Self-Help | United States | 2010 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 34 | Bill Drayton | United States | 2009 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 33 | Hospicio de San Jose | Philippines | 2009 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 32 | Challenging Heights | Ghana | 2008 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 31 | AMEI-WAECE | Spain | 2007 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 30 | Ecotrópica | Brazil | 2007 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 29 | SurfAid International | Indonesia | 2007 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 28 | Center for Conflict Resolution and Reconcilliation | Palestine | 2007 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 27 | Oren Lyons | United States | 2007 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 26 | Ashoka | International | 2006 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 25 | South Society for Special Education | Jordan | 2006 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 24 | Altai Foundation of Russia | Russia | 2006 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 23 | Free the Children | United States | 2006 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 22 | Paz y Cooperación | France | 2006 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 21 | Rotary International | United States | 2005 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 20 | Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana | India | 2005 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 19 | Kahrizak Charity Foundation | Iran | 2005 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 18 | Roots of Peace | United States | 2005 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 17 | Hogar Crea Dominicano | Dominican | 2005 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 16 | STAR Kampuchea | Cambodia | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 15 | Buccoo Reef Trust | Trinidad and Tobago | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 14 | Small Kindness | United Kingdom | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 13 | United Families International | United States | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 12 | Peace Works Foundation | United States | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 11 | Kenneth David Kaunda | Zambia | 2004 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 10 | Green Belt Movement | Kenya | 2003 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 9 | Congress of Racial Equality | United States | 2003 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 8 | Maha Chakri Sirindhorn | Thailand | 2003 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 7 | African American Islamic Institute | Senegal | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 6 | Inuit Circumpolar Council | International | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 5 | Institute for Responsible Fatherhood & Family | United States | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 4 | Bahrain Women Association | Bahrain | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 3 | William E. Swing & United Religions Initiative | United States | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 2 | Fundación Arias | Costa Rica | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. | |
| 1 | Federico Mayor Zaragoza | Spain | 2002 | outstanding efforts, innovation, and leadership in serving humanity. |
WANGO Awards Laureates (2021)
Jerry Inzerillo
WANGO Tourism for Peace Award 2021
Gerard "Jerry" Inzerillo (born 1954) is a world-renowned hospitality and tourism leader with a career spanning over five decades. Starting as a busboy in New York at age 13, he rose to become one of the most influential figures in the industry, currently serving as the Group CEO of the Diriyah Company (formerly Diriyah Gate Development Authority) in Saudi Arabia.Inzerillo’s legacy is defined by his ability to launch iconic luxury brands and megaprojects. His career highlights include:Iconic Launches: Orchestrating the openings of Atlantis in Dubai and the Bahamas, and The Lost City at Sun City in South Africa.Executive Leadership: Serving as CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, President of Kerzner Entertainment Group, and CEO of IMG Artists.Diriyah Vision: Leading the $63.2 billion transformation of Diriyah—the ancestral home of the Saudi state—into a global cultural and heritage destination.A close friend of the late Nelson Mandela, Inzerillo was honored with the WANGO Tourism for Peace Award in 2021 for his lifelong commitment to using hospitality as a bridge for global understanding and social progress.
WANGO Awards Laureates (2016~2011)
Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi
WANGO Literary Peace Award 2016
Dr. Jamal Sanad Al-Suwaidi (born 1959) is a prominent Emirati scholar, author, and strategic thinker who has significantly shaped intellectual discourse in the Middle East. He is the former Director-General of the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), an influential think-tank in Abu Dhabi that bridges the gap between academic research and government policy.Dr. Al-Suwaidi is renowned for his courageous intellectual stance against religious extremism. His seminal work, The Mirage, provides a rigorous analytical critique of political Islam and the misuse of religion for political gain. His scholarship focuses on:National Security: Analyzing regional stability and global power dynamics.Modernization: Promoting a progressive, tolerant vision for the Arab world.Education: Advocating for scientific research as the driver of future prosperity.In 2015, he was honored with the WANGO Universal Peace Award for his dedication to fostering global understanding and combating radical ideologies. As of 2025, his work remains a cornerstone for policymakers seeking to navigate the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics while promoting a culture of peace and tolerance.
World Information Transfer
WANGO Environment Award 2013
World Information Transfer: Linking Environment and Health
Founded in 1987 by Dr. Christine K. Durbak, World Information Transfer (WIT) is a non-profit NGO headquartered in New York City. Inspired by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, WIT was created to address the urgent need for accurate, science-based information regarding the deteriorating global environment and its direct impact on human health.The organization is distinguished by its General Consultative Status with the United Nations (ECOSOC), the highest level of recognition for an NGO. WIT’s work is centered on three main pillars:World Ecology Report: A quarterly digest published since 1989 that provides critical health and environmental news to thousands of citizens in both developed and developing nations.Annual Conferences: Since 1992, WIT has convened the "Health and Environment: Global Partners for Global Solutions" conference at the UN Headquarters, bringing together international experts to present clinical evidence on environmental degradation.Humanitarian Aid: Through the K. Kovshevych Foundation, WIT provides aid and scholarships to schools and orphanages in areas devastated by environmental crises.In 2013, WIT was honored with the WANGO Environment Award for its decades of commitment to environmental literacy. Today, the organization continues to leverage digital platforms like "Virtual Voices" to educate future leaders on sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ibrahim Gambari
WANGO Universal Peace Award 2011
Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari (born 1944) is a world-renowned Nigerian scholar-diplomat who has dedicated his career to international peace, security, and African development. A graduate of the London School of Economics and Columbia University, Gambari began his career in academia before transitioning into high-level public service.Gambari’s illustrious career is marked by several landmark roles:National Leadership: He served as Nigeria’s Minister of External Affairs (1984–1985) and, more recently, as the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari (2020–2023).United Nations Veteran: He holds the record as Nigeria's longest-serving Ambassador to the UN (1990–1999) and served as the first Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on Africa.Peacekeeping and Reform: He led the world’s largest peacekeeping mission as the Joint Special Representative for UNAMID in Darfur (2010–2012) and chaired the UN Special Committee Against Apartheid.In 2011, Gambari was honored with the WANGO Universal Peace Award for his extraordinary service in conflict resolution. As of late 2025, he continues to influence global policy as a member of the African Union’s High-Level Panel of Eminent Experts, focusing on governance and security reforms across the continent.
WANGO Awards Laureates (2010~2006)
I F E S H
WANGO Education Award 2010
Founded in 1981 by the late Reverend Leon H. Sullivan, the International Foundation for Education and Self-Help (IFESH) is a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing poverty and illiteracy in sub-Saharan Africa. Reverend Sullivan, a famed civil rights leader and the author of the "Sullivan Principles," established IFESH to provide developing nations with the educational and economic tools necessary for self-sufficiency.IFESH operates on the belief that education is the cornerstone of social reform. Its impact is characterized by:Teacher Training: The organization has trained nearly 200,000 teachers, significantly raising literacy standards across the continent.Conflict Mitigation: Through projects like CALM (Conflict Abatement through Local Mitigation), IFESH uses innovative methods—such as the "Basketball for Peace" program—to unify at-risk youth and foster reconciliation in volatile regions like Nigeria.Health and Development: Programs focus on combating HIV/AIDS, improving maternal health, and establishing sustainable community resources.In 2010, IFESH was recognized by WANGO for its enduring commitment to humanitarian service and its role in fostering social justice through partnership rather than dependency.
Bill Drayton
WANGO Universal Peace Award 2009
Born in 1943 in New York City, Bill Drayton is a transformative leader who pioneered the global field of social entrepreneurship. After an elite education at Harvard, Oxford, and Yale Law School, Drayton worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and served as an Assistant Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during the Carter administration.In 1980, he founded Ashoka: Innovators for the Public, based on the belief that "the most powerful force in the world is a big idea—if it is in the hands of a great entrepreneur." Drayton is credited with coining and popularizing the term "social entrepreneur" to describe individuals who use business-like discipline to solve systemic social problems.His vision has evolved into the "Everyone a Changemaker" movement, which advocates for a world where every person possesses the agency and empathy to drive positive social change. In recognition of his profound global impact, Drayton has received numerous honors, including the MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship (1984) and the WANGO Universal Peace Award in 2009.
Hospicio de San Jose
WANGO Service to Humanity 2009
Founded in 1778 by Francisco Gómez EnrÃquez and his wife Barbara Verzosa, Hospicio de San Jose is the oldest social welfare institution in the Philippines. It is uniquely situated on Isla de Convalecencia, a small island in the middle of the Pasig River in Manila, accessible only via the Ayala Bridge. Originally established to care for the "poor and unwanted," it has evolved over two centuries into a sanctuary for orphans, the abandoned, the elderly, and persons with special needs.Managed by the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul since 1865, the institution is famous for its historical "turning cradle" (torno), which allowed mothers to anonymously and safely leave infants in the care of the sisters. Today, Hospicio provides a holistic range of services, including:Child and Youth Welfare: Adoption, foster care, and educational programs.Elderly Care: A permanent home for the "twilight years" of those without families.Crisis Intervention: Temporary shelter for victims of trafficking and domestic abuse.In 2009, the organization received the WANGO Bicentennial Award for Service to Humanity, recognizing its 200-year legacy as a "cradle of hope" for the most marginalized members of Philippine society.
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Challenging Heights
WANGO Education Award 2008
Founded in 2003 by James Kofi Annan, a former victim of child slavery, Challenging Heights is a leading Ghanaian NGO dedicated to ending child trafficking and modern slavery. The organization focuses on the fishing industry of Lake Volta, where thousands of children are trafficked into forced labor, performing dangerous tasks like untangling nets underwater.The organization employs a comprehensive "Rescue, Rehab, Reintegrate" model:Rescue: Conducting daring missions to liberate children from forced labor on the lake.Rehabilitation: Providing psychological support and education at their specialized recovery center, the Hovde House.Prevention: Empowering mothers through microfinance and training, ensuring they have the financial stability to keep their children in school.In 2008, Challenging Heights was honored with the WANGO Humanitarian Award for its courageous grassroots activism. James Kofi Annan’s journey from a six-year-old slave to a global human rights leader has inspired international legislation and continues to protect the rights of vulnerable children across West Africa.
AMEI-WAECE
WANGO Education, Media & the Arts Award 2007
Founded in 1992, the World Association of Early Childhood Educators (AMEI-WAECE) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to supporting professionals who educate children from birth to age six. Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, it was born out of a global need for a "teacher-centric" network that provides practical classroom tools rather than just high-level policy.The Association operates on the belief that early childhood is the most critical window for shaping a harmonious personality. Its mission focuses on:Pedagogical Innovation: Providing educators with research-backed methodological procedures and free classroom activities.Peace Education: Through its "Permanent Chair of Peace Education," it promotes values of tolerance and non-violence under the motto "Learning to Live Together."Global Networking: Organizing world conferences (such as those in Spain and Washington, D.C.) to unite ministers, NGOs, and scholars.In 2007, AMEI-WAECE was honored with the WANGO Education Award for its extraordinary commitment to the "pedagogical renovation" of preschool systems. Today, with consultative status at the United Nations and the OAS, it continues to advocate for the rights of every child to receive a quality, value-based education.
Ecotrópica
WANGO Environment Award 2007
Ecotrópica: Protectors of the Pantanal
Founded in 1989 in Cuiabá, Brazil, Ecotrópica (Foundation for Supporting Life in the Tropics) is a premier non-profit dedicated to preserving the Pantanal, the world’s largest freshwater wetland system. Led for years by founder Adalberto Eberhard, the organization was born out of a desperate need to protect this "alluvial plain" from rapid socioeconomic pressures and habitat loss.Ecotrópica’s most significant achievement is the creation of a massive private conservation corridor. By purchasing strategic tracts of land, they established 60,000 hectares of Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) including Acurizal, Penha, and Dorochê. These areas border the Pantanal National Park, forming a protected complex of nearly 190,000 hectares that UNESCO declared a World Natural Heritage Site in 2000.In 2007, Ecotrópica received the WANGO Environment Award for its pioneering efforts to safeguard the Pantanal's biodiversity—home to the world's highest concentration of jaguars and hyacinth macaws—ensuring this "giant sponge" continues to regulate South America's water cycles.
SurfAid International
WANGO Humanitarian Award 2007
Founded in 2000 by Dr. Dave Jenkins, SurfAid International is a humanitarian organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of remote communities connected through surfing. The inspiration for SurfAid came in 1999 during a surf trip to Indonesia’s Mentawai Islands, where Dr. Jenkins discovered that behind the "surfer’s paradise" lay some of the world’s highest rates of preventable death from malaria and malnutrition.SurfAid operates on a "hand up, not a handout" philosophy, focusing on community-led development rather than short-term charity. Its programs prioritize:Maternal and Child Health: Training local "kaders" (community health volunteers) to promote nutrition, breastfeeding, and prenatal care.Water and Sanitation (WASH): Building clean water systems and latrines to eradicate waterborne diseases.Food Security: Establishing climate-resilient "nutrition gardens" to combat childhood stunting.For its innovative and adaptive approach, SurfAid was honored with the WANGO Humanitarian Award in 2007. Today, it serves tens of thousands of people across Indonesia and the Solomon Islands, proving that the surfing community can be a powerful force for global health equity.
C C R R
WANGO Peace & Security Award 2007
Founded in 1999 by Noah Salameh, the Center for Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation (CCRR) is a Palestinian non-governmental organization based in Bethlehem. Established during a period of intense regional tension, CCRR is committed to transforming the culture of violence into a culture of non-violence and dialogue within Palestinian society and the broader Middle East.The Center operates through two primary "tracks" of action:Internal Track: Strengthening Palestinian civil society by training youth, women, and educators in communication, negotiation, and "active listening" to reduce internal social stresses.External Track: Engaging in regional and international analysis to find just, non-violent solutions to the ongoing conflict.CCRR’s notable programs include the "Media in Conflict" project, which explores how journalists can move beyond polarizing narratives, and the "Young Politicians" program, which trains student leaders at various universities in democratic leadership. In recognition of its pioneering grassroots work, CCRR was honored with the WANGO Peace & Security Award in 2007.
Oren Lyons
WANGO Awards 2007
Oren Lyons (born 1930) is a Faithkeeper of the Turtle Clan of the Onondaga Nation and a globally respected leader for indigenous rights and environmental justice. A member of the Sovereign House of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy), Lyons has spent decades bridging the gap between traditional indigenous wisdom and modern global policy.In 1977, he was a key figure in the Haudenosaunee delegation to the United Nations in Geneva, which helped draft the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. His philosophy is rooted in the "Seventh Generation" principle, which dictates that leaders must consider the impact of their decisions on their descendants seven generations into the future.Beyond his political activism, Lyons is a celebrated artist and an All-American Hall of Fame lacrosse player, often using the "Creator's Game" to promote peace and cultural pride. In recognition of his lifetime of service, he received the WANGO Peace & Security Award in 2008. Even in his nineties, Lyons remains a "Faithkeeper," reminding the world that we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, but borrow it from our children.
Ashoka
WANGO Awards 2006
Founded in 1980 by Bill Drayton, Ashoka: Innovators for the Public is a global organization that pioneered the field of social entrepreneurship. Drayton, a former McKinsey consultant, named the organization after the Indian Emperor Ashoka "the Great," who famously renounced violence to dedicate his life to social welfare and morality.Ashoka’s core mission is to build an "Everyone a Changemaker" world. It achieves this by identifying and supporting Ashoka Fellows—extraordinary individuals with "system-changing" solutions to the world’s most urgent social problems. Key aspects of the organization include:The Fellowship: Provides a tailored life-long network and a three-year living stipend to fellows, allowing them to focus entirely on scaling their social innovations.Global Reach: Supports over 4,000 fellows in more than 90 countries, working across fields such as education, environment, health, and human rights.Impact: Over 90% of Ashoka Fellows see their innovations replicated by other groups within five years of their election.In 2025, Ashoka continues to lead global shifts in education through partnerships like "Unlock Education," focusing on developing empathy and resilience in youth to prepare them for a rapidly changing world.
South Society for Special Education
WANGO Awards 2006
Founded in 1989 and based in Ma'an, the South Society for Special Education is a pioneering non-governmental organization dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities in the southern regions of Jordan. Before its establishment, families in these remote areas faced a critical lack of specialized services, often having to travel to the capital, Amman, for basic support.The Society’s mission is to provide comprehensive care that promotes independence and social integration. Its core services include:Early Intervention: Diagnostic and therapeutic services for children to address developmental delays at the earliest stage.Specialized Education: Tailored learning programs for students with intellectual and physical disabilities.Rehabilitation Services: Providing speech therapy, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.Vocational Training: Equipping older youth with practical skills to foster economic self-reliance and dignity.In recognition of its profound impact and commitment to an underserved population, the Society was honored with the WANGO Education Award in 2006. Under the leadership of President Mattar Abu-Rakhiya, the organization continues to expand its reach, proving that location should never be a barrier to quality care.
Altai Foundation of Russia
WANGO Awards 2006
The Altai Foundation is a Russian non-governmental organization dedicated to the preservation of the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Altai Mountains. Founded by conservationists Slava Trigubovich and Vladislav Shilo, the Foundation focuses on protecting the "Golden Mountains of Altai," a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its extreme biological diversity and sacred indigenous landscapes.The Foundation is internationally acclaimed for its Snow Leopard Conservation initiatives. By leading field expeditions to map breeding grounds, they successfully campaigned for the creation of the Sailugemskiy National Park, a critical unprotected corridor for these elusive big cats. Their work blends modern science with traditional knowledge, collaborating with local rangers and international partners like the WWF to combat poaching and promote sustainable land use.In 2006, the Altai Foundation was honored with the WANGO Environment Award for its pioneering efforts in nature reserve management and its balanced approach to ecological protection. Today, it remains a vital force in ensuring that the Altai region—often called the "Switzerland of Russia"—survives as a pristine sanctuary for both wildlife and nomadic traditions.
Free the Children
WANGO Awards 2006
Founded in 1995 by 12-year-old Craig Kielburger, Free the Children began as a small group of classmates in Toronto, Canada, dedicated to ending child labor. Inspired by the story of Iqbal Masih, a young Pakistani boy murdered for speaking out against child slavery, Kielburger rallied his peers to prove that young people were not powerless to change the world.The organization evolved from a grassroots protest group into a major international development charity. It pioneered the "WE Villages" model, a holistic five-pillar approach to sustainable development:Education: Building over 1,500 schools and schoolrooms globally.Water: Providing clean water and sanitation to over one million people.Health: Establishing clinics and mobile health units.Food: Implementing school gardens and irrigation projects.Opportunity: Offering alternative income training for parents.In 2016, the organization rebranded as WE Charity. While it faced significant political controversy in Canada in 2020, its legacy remains a landmark in the youth-led social justice movement
Paz y Cooperación
WANGO Awards 2006
Founded in 1982 by the late Spanish diplomat and activist JoaquÃn Antuña, Paz y Cooperación (Peace and Cooperation) is a Madrid-based international NGO dedicated to promoting a "culture of peace" through education and global solidarity. Inspired by meetings with figures like Mother Teresa and Aurelio Peccei, Antuña envisioned an organization that moved beyond political rhetoric to spark creativity in the hearts of the youth.The foundation is most renowned for its Annual School Awards, a global competition that invites students from over 100 countries to express themes of peace, human rights, and environmental protection through art, poetry, and digital media. Operating under the motto "Create and Survive," the organization maintains Special Consultative Status with the United Nations (ECOSOC) and frequently collaborates with UN agencies to promote International Days and the Millennium Development Goals.In 2006, Paz y Cooperación was honored with the WANGO Peace & Security Award for its tireless efforts in disarmament and peace education. Today, under the leadership of Rosa Olazabal, it continues to serve as a bridge between the diplomatic world and grassroots education, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
WANGO Awards Laureates (2005~2001)
Rotary International
WANGO Awards 2005
Rotary International: Service Above Self
Founded in 1905 in Chicago by attorney Paul Harris, Rotary International is the world’s first service organization. What began as a small fellowship for professionals to exchange ideas has grown into a global network of 1.4 million members across more than 46,000 clubs in nearly every country.Rotary’s mission is guided by its primary motto, "Service Above Self," and the Four-Way Test, a non-partisan ethical guide used by members to measure their actions. The organization’s humanitarian impact is focused on seven key areas:Peacebuilding and conflict preventionDisease prevention and treatmentWater, sanitation, and hygieneMaternal and child healthBasic education and literacyCommunity economic developmentEnvironmental protectionRotary is most famous for its leading role in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Since 1979, Rotarians have helped immunize over 3 billion children, reducing global polio cases by 99.9%. Today, through The Rotary Foundation, the organization continues to fund sustainable projects that empower communities to solve their own challenges.
Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana
WANGO Awards 2005
Founded in 1985 by visionary social entrepreneur Shantilal Muttha, the Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana (BJS) is a non-political, non-profit organization based in Pune, India. Guided by the motto of "Nation Building through Holistic Development," BJS has evolved from a community-focused group into a massive national network of volunteers dedicated to disaster response, education, and social reform.The organization’s impact is defined by three main pillars:Disaster Response: BJS is renowned for its rapid action, often arriving within 24 hours of major calamities like the 1993 Latur earthquake and the 2001 Gujarat earthquake. Its Wagholi Educational Rehabilitation Center (WERC) has provided long-term education and care for thousands of children orphaned by disasters and farmer suicides.Educational Quality: Through initiatives like Mulyavardhan, BJS has reached millions of students with value-based education, partnering with state governments to improve school standards.Social Reform: BJS pioneered "mass marriages" to combat the financial burden of dowries and extravagant wedding costs, a model now widely replicated across India.Recipient of the WANGO Education Award (2005), BJS continues to bridge the gap between grassroots needs and government policy.
Kahrizak Charity Foundation
WANGO Awards 2005
Founded in 1971 by Dr. Mohammad Reza Hakimzadeh, the Kahrizak Charity Foundation (KCF) is one of the largest and most respected non-governmental organizations in Iran. It began in a single dilapidated room with one patient and has since grown into a massive "city within a city," providing free, high-quality care to over 3,000 residents, including the elderly, the physically disabled, and patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).Operating on a 100-acre campus near Tehran, the Foundation’s philosophy is "We can fly with broken wings." It focuses on empowerment through rehabilitation, offering more than 40 vocational workshops where residents engage in art, music, and crafts. The Ladies Charitable Society (LCS), founded by Ashraf Ghandehari, has been a vital partner since 1972, mobilizing thousands of volunteers and global support.In 2005, the LCS was honored with the WANGO Humanitarian Award for its extraordinary dedication. Today, KCF stands as a global model for treating society’s most vulnerable with profound human dignity.
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Roots of Peace
WANGO Awards 2005
Founded in 1997 by Heidi Kuhn, a cancer survivor and former journalist, Roots of Peace is a humanitarian organization dedicated to transforming "fields of death into gardens of life." Inspired by the late Princess Diana’s crusade against landmines, Kuhn launched the organization from her living room with a prophetic toast: "May the world go from mines to vines."The organization’s unique "Mines to Vines" model works in two critical stages:Demining: Partnering with specialized agencies to remove landmines and unexploded ordnance.Sustainable Agriculture: Replacing those weapons with high-value crops like grapes, pomegranates, and black pepper, while providing farmers with modern technology and market access.To date, Roots of Peace has helped remove over 100,000 landmines and planted more than 7 million fruit trees, impacting over one million farmers in countries like Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Croatia. In recognition of her transformative work, Heidi Kuhn was named the 2023 World Food Prize Laureate and has been a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2024 and 2025.
Hogar Crea Dominicano
WANGO Awards 2005
Founded in 1975 by the late Leopoldo DÃaz, Hogar Crea Dominicano is the Dominican Republic’s most prominent non-profit dedicated to the treatment and prevention of drug and alcohol addiction. It is an affiliate of the international Hogar CREA movement, which originated in Puerto Rico. The acronym CREA stands for Comunidad de Reeducación para Adictos (Community for the Re-Education of Addicts).The organization operates on a Therapeutic Community model, emphasizing:Self-Effort and Mutual Help: Residents take active roles in their own recovery and the maintenance of the facility.Re-Education: Focusing on character building, spiritual growth, and social reintegration rather than just clinical detoxification.Accessibility: Providing services to individuals regardless of their social or economic background.With a network of over 40 facilities across the country, Hogar Crea has successfully re-educated more than 16,000 individuals since its inception. In 2025, it was honored by the Ministry of Public Health with its highest award for its lifelong commitment to transforming lives and families.
STAR Kampuchea
WANGO Awards 2004
Established in 1997, STAR Kampuchea (SK) is a leading Cambodian non-profit and non-partisan organization dedicated to building democracy by strengthening civil society. The organization emerged during Cambodia’s post-conflict transition with the goal of providing a "common voice" for the country's most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, enabling them to advocate for their rights within a democratic framework.STAR Kampuchea focuses on three primary pillars:Human Rights and Good Governance: Promoting transparency, social accountability, and the rule of law at both national and local levels.Natural Resource Management: Empowering rural communities—particularly those facing land-grabbing and resource conflicts—to sustainably manage their land, forests, and fisheries.Youth and Civic Engagement: Training the next generation in leadership, advocacy, and digital literacy to ensure active participation in community development.Recognized with the WANGO Civil Society Development Award in 2004, STAR Kampuchea remains a vital mediator between grassroots communities and policymakers, transforming "lobbying" into a tool for social justice and equitable development across Cambodia.
Buccoo Reef Trust
WANGO Awards 2004
Founded in 1999, the Buccoo Reef Trust (BRT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of Tobago’s marine environment. It was established to assist the government in managing the Buccoo Reef Marine Park, a 7 $km^2$ protected area and Ramsar site that is vital to the island's tourism and coastal protection.The Trust focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and community action. Key initiatives include:B.E.A.C.H. Program: An umbrella for environmental education, teaching students about coral ecology and sustainable habits through "hands-on" learning.Marine Research: Conducting vital surveys on coral bleaching, nutrient pollution, and the impact of climate change on local biodiversity.Restoration: Partnering with international experts to pilot coral nurseries and artificial reef structures to jumpstart natural recovery.By advocating for sustainable tourism and stricter pollution controls, the BRT works to ensure that the reef—famously called the "third most spectacular sight in the world" by Jacques Cousteau—remains a resilient nursery for marine life and a source of pride for Tobagonians.
Small Kindness
WANGO Awards 2004
Small Kindness is a humanitarian relief organization founded in 1999 by the world-renowned singer-songwriter Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens) and his wife, Fawziah Ali. The charity was born in response to the devastating humanitarian crisis during the Kosovo War, where Yusuf witnessed the displacement and suffering of thousands of refugees firsthand.The organization's philosophy is rooted in the belief that direct, personal relief can bridge the gap created by large-scale institutional aid. Its mission focuses on the most vulnerable victims of war and natural disasters—primarily orphans, widows, and young girls. Small Kindness operates through several key programs:Orphan Sponsorship: Providing long-term financial support and educational opportunities.Direct Relief: Delivering food, medicine, and living necessities with minimal administrative overhead.Sustainable Development: Rebuilding homes and establishing IT and vocational training centers to foster economic independence.For its impactful work in the Balkans, Indonesia, and the Middle East, Small Kindness was awarded the WANGO Humanitarian Award in 2004.
United Families International
WANGO Awards 2004
Founded in 1978 by Susan Roylance, United Families International (UFI) is a U.S.-based non-profit organization that advocates for public policies centered on what it defines as the "traditional family." Headquartered in Arizona, UFI operates globally, maintaining Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).UFI’s mission is built upon several core pillars, which it promotes through education and international lobbying:The Natural Family: Advocating for the family as the foundational unit of society, specifically defined as a marriage between one man and one woman.Parental Rights: Emphasizing that parents have the primary right and responsibility to raise, educate, and care for their children.Respect for Life: Promoting pro-life perspectives and opposing policies that favor abortion or coercive population control.Religious Freedom: Supporting the right of individuals and families to practice their religious convictions openly.The organization is active at UN conferences, where it works to ensure that international documents reflect pro-family and pro-life values. While its stances have made it a controversial figure among human rights groups advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, UFI remains a significant voice for the conservative global coalition.
Peace Works Foundation
WANGO Awards 2004
Founded in 2002 by social entrepreneur Daniel Lubetzky (the founder of KIND Snacks), the PeaceWorks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering a "culture of peace" in the Middle East. It is most famous for its signature initiative, the OneVoice Movement, which seeks to amplify the voices of the moderate majority of Israelis and Palestinians who support a two-state solution but are often drowned out by extremists.The Foundation’s approach is rooted in "not-only-for-profit" principles, originally inspired by Lubetzky’s business, PeaceWorks Inc., which promoted joint economic ventures between Arabs and Israelis. Key pillars of the Foundation include:Grassroots Mobilization: Empowering youth leaders and activists to lobby their representatives for political progress.Civic Engagement: Combating the status quo through parallel campaigns that build public will for peace on both sides.Leadership Training: Developing a new generation of "Emerging Leaders" equipped with pragmatic conflict-resolution skills.By promoting economic interdependence and civic courage, PeaceWorks Foundation strives to create the human infrastructure necessary for a just and lasting resolution to the conflict.
Kenneth David Kaunda
WANGO Awards 2004
Kenneth David Kaunda (1924–2021), fondly known as "KK," was the founding father and first president of Zambia, serving from 1964 to 1991. A former teacher, he led the nonviolent struggle for independence from British rule, famously using his guitar and freedom songs to mobilize the masses.At the heart of his governance was the philosophy of "Zambian Humanism," which blended Christian values with traditional African communalism. This ideology emphasized the dignity of the individual and social equality, leading to massive investments in universal education and healthcare—sectors that were virtually non-existent for the indigenous population before independence.Beyond Zambia, Kaunda was a titan of Pan-Africanism. He transformed his country into a "frontline state," sacrificing Zambia's own economic stability to provide a safe haven and headquarters for liberation movements like the ANC (South Africa) and ZAPU (Zimbabwe). After gracefully conceding power in 1991, he spent his later years as a global advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and conflict resolution.
Green Belt Movement
WANGO Awards 2003
Founded in 1977 by Dr. Wangari Maathai, the Green Belt Movement (GBM) is a world-renowned grassroots organization based in Kenya. The movement began when Maathai observed that rural women were struggling with drying streams, food insecurity, and the exhaustion of walking miles for firewood—all symptoms of severe deforestation.Maathai’s solution was elegantly simple: planting trees. Using tree planting as an "entry point," the GBM empowers women to become "foresters without diplomas," providing them with small stipends to grow and nurture seedlings. This holistic approach addresses environmental conservation while simultaneously tackling poverty and gender inequality.Since its inception, the GBM has:Planted over 51 million trees across Kenya.Trained over 30,000 women in sustainable trades like beekeeping and forestry.Advocated for democracy and human rights, famously saving Nairobi’s Uhuru Park from private development.In 2004, Wangari Maathai became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, recognizing that sustainable development, democracy, and peace are inseparable.
Congress of Racial Equality
WANGO Awards 2003
Founded in 1942 in Chicago by an interracial group of students, the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) was a cornerstone of the American Civil Rights Movement. Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent direct action, CORE’s early leaders—including James Farmer and George Houser—sought to challenge segregation through peaceful but confrontational tactics.CORE is best known for orchestrating the 1961 Freedom Rides, where integrated groups of activists rode interstate buses into the Deep South to challenge illegal segregation in terminal facilities. This courageous campaign faced extreme violence but ultimately forced federal intervention and desegregation. CORE also pioneered the "sit-in" movement and played a major role in the 1963 March on Washington and 1964 Freedom Summer.In the mid-1960s, following the tragic murders of three CORE workers in Mississippi, the organization shifted its philosophy toward "Black Power" and community self-determination. Today, CORE continues as a "philanthropic omnibus human rights organization," focusing on equal opportunity and economic empowerment.
Maha Chakri Sirindhorn
WANGO Awards 2003
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand (born 1955) is globally recognized for her lifelong dedication to education, humanitarian relief, and rural development. A distinguished scholar, she holds a Doctorate in Development Education and is fluent in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Pali, and Mandarin.Her work is characterized by a "hands-on" approach, frequently traveling to remote areas to oversee projects in nutrition, clean water, and agricultural development. Since 1977, she has served as the Executive Vice President of the Thai Red Cross Society, playing a central role in disaster relief and public health initiatives.In 2005, she was appointed a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, focusing on the "Empowerment of Minority Children through Education and the Preservation of their Intangible Cultural Heritage." Her efforts ensure that marginalized communities have access to quality schooling while maintaining their unique linguistic and artistic traditions. For her vast contributions to humanity, she has received numerous international honors, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Indira Gandhi Prize.
African American Islamic Institute
WANGO Awards 2002
The African American Islamic Institute (AAII) is an international humanitarian NGO founded in 1988 in Senegal by Shaykh Hassan Cissé. It serves as a spiritual and social bridge between African American Muslims and West Africa, specifically the Tijaniyya Sufi community in Medina Baye, Kaolack.The AAII's mission is rooted in the Islamic principle of Nasrul 'Ilm (Helping Knowledge). It provides a holistic framework for human development through several key initiatives:Education: Operating a world-renowned Qur'anic boarding school and preschools that integrate Islamic studies with modern secular subjects.Healthcare: Managing clinics that provide essential medical and reproductive health services to underserved populations in Senegal.Human Rights: Advocating for women’s empowerment and child protection, holding General Consultative Status with the United Nations (ECOSOC).By fostering international exchange and alleviating poverty, the AAII works to restore the cultural and spiritual ties severed by the transatlantic slave trade, promoting a "Culture of Peace" through service.
Inuit Circumpolar Council
WANGO Awards 2002
Founded in 1977 by the late visionary Eben Hopson, the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) is a multinational non-governmental organization representing approximately 180,000 Inuit across Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Chukotka (Russia). The ICC was born from the realization that to thrive in their shared homeland, Inuit must speak with a single, united voice on the global stage.The Council operates with four primary goals:Unity: Strengthening the bonds between Inuit across national borders.Rights Advocacy: Promoting Inuit interests and human rights at the international level.Environmental Stewardship: Developing long-term policies to safeguard the fragile Arctic ecosystem.Social & Economic Development: Ensuring Inuit are active partners in the political and economic growth of their regions.As a Permanent Participant in the Arctic Council and a holder of consultative status at the United Nations, the ICC is a major diplomatic force. It plays a critical role in global climate change negotiations and international maritime law, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge is central to Arctic governance.
I R F F R
WANGO Awards 2002
The Institute for Responsible Fatherhood and Family Revitalization (IRFFR) was a pioneering American non-profit organization founded in 1982 by Dr. Charles Ballard. Driven by Ballard’s personal journey of transformation, the Institute was established to address the social and economic consequences of father absence, particularly in underserved urban communities.The Institute became famous for its "nontraditional" and highly personal approach to social work. Rather than waiting for clients to come to them, "outreach specialists" visited fathers in their homes, on street corners, or in prisons. The program's core philosophy centered on:One-on-One Mentoring: Building long-term, trust-based relationships to guide men toward responsible parenting.Family Mediation: Working to reconcile fathers with the mothers of their children and their extended families.Economic Stability: Assisting fathers with job readiness, education, and legal hurdles to ensure they could provide financial support.At its peak, the Institute operated in several major cities (including Washington, D.C., and Cleveland) and influenced federal "Responsible Fatherhood" legislation. It remains a landmark in the movement to treat father involvement as a key solution to child poverty and community stability.
Bahrain Women Association
WANGO Awards 2002
Established in 2001, the Bahrain Women Association for Human Development (BWA) is a leading non-governmental organization dedicated to the holistic advancement of society. Guided by a vision of "cosmic awareness," the BWA transcends traditional charity work, focusing instead on long-term sustainable development and the empowerment of human potential.The association’s work is built on several key pillars:Environmental Citizenship: Promoting a "green" culture and individual responsibility toward natural resources.Child Protection: Advocating for the rights of the child and creating safe environments for growth.Women's Leadership: Enabling women to play an active, humanitarian role in social and political life.The BWA is notable for its international reach, holding consultative status with the United Nations (ECOSOC) and partnering with organizations like the Earth Charter International. By integrating universal values with local action, the association works to build a global human society defined by justice, dignity, and a profound respect for the environment.
William E. Swing & U R I
WANGO Awards 2002
The Right Reverend William E. Swing (born 1936) is the visionary founder of the United Religions Initiative (URI). While serving as the Episcopal Bishop of California, Swing was invited by the United Nations in 1993 to host an interfaith service for the UN's 50th anniversary. This sparked a transformative realization: while nations had a permanent forum for cooperation (the UN), the world's religions lacked a similar global platform to address conflict and collaborate for the common good.Launched officially in 2000, URI has grown into the world’s largest grassroots interfaith network. Unlike traditional top-down organizations, URI operates through Cooperation Circles—self-organizing groups of at least seven members from at least three different faiths. These circles tackle local issues ranging from poverty and environmental protection to conflict resolution.Today, URI spans over 100 countries with more than 1,000 circles, embodying Swing’s "fifth vow" to foster daily interfaith cooperation and end religiously motivated violence.
Fundación Arias
WANGO Interreligious Cooperation Award 2002
The Arias Foundation for Peace and Human Progress (Fundación Arias) is a non-profit organization established in 1988 by Oscar Arias Sánchez, the former President of Costa Rica. Following his receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his pivotal role in ending Central American civil wars through the Esquipulas II Accord, Arias dedicated his prize money to create this institutional legacy.Headquartered in San José, Costa Rica, the Foundation focuses on transforming the "culture of war" into a "culture of peace." Its work is organized around three primary pillars:Disarmament and Demilitarization: Leading global efforts for arms control, including the drafting of the International Arms Trade Treaty.Gender Equality: Promoting the political and economic rights of women across Central America.Conflict Resolution: Strengthening democratic governance and fostering dialogue in post-conflict societies.By advocating for the "peace dividend"—the redirection of military spending toward human development—the Foundation remains a vital force for stability and justice in Latin America.
Federico Mayor Zaragoza
WANGO Universal Peace Award 2002
Federico Mayor Zaragoza (1934–2024) was a distinguished Spanish scientist, politician, and diplomat best known for his transformative leadership as the Director-General of UNESCO from 1987 to 1999. Originally a Professor of Biochemistry, he transitioned from academia to high-level governance, serving as Spain’s Minister of Education and Science before moving to the international stage.At UNESCO, Mayor Zaragoza shifted the organization’s focus toward the "Culture of Peace." He championed the idea that peace is not merely the absence of war but a proactive commitment to human rights, democracy, and education. Under his guidance, UNESCO launched the Culture of Peace Programme, which later inspired the UN’s "International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence."Following his tenure, he founded the Foundation for a Culture of Peace in 2000, continuing his advocacy for global dialogue and the eradication of poverty. An accomplished poet and essayist, he remained a powerful voice for non-violence until his passing in late 2024.