The 2024 Waislitz Global Citizen Awards mark 10 years of honoring and supporting outstanding individuals worldwide for their efforts to end extreme poverty. Applications for this year’s awards are now open, offering a cash prize to uplift individuals pioneering the effort to eradicate extreme poverty. The awards and funding aim to empower recipients to further their advocacy efforts to eliminate poverty and tackle its systemic causes. Presented by the Waislitz Foundation and Global Citizen, the 2024 awards will distribute $250,000 among three exceptional changemakers.
In recent years, the mission to end extreme poverty and its systemic causes has encountered significant challenges. Despite concerted efforts by governments, organizations, and individuals, the goal of eradicating poverty still needs to be achieved for millions worldwide. However, some extraordinary individuals refuse to accept the status quo amidst these challenges. These changemakers are tirelessly working to uplift communities, break down barriers, and create a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive. The Waislitz Global Citizen Awards exist for these unsung heroes – to recognize their efforts, amplify their impact, and inspire others to join the cause.
The impact of the Waislitz Global Citizen Awards can be seen in the transformative stories of past winners.
Haroon Yasin, co-founder of Orenda, was awarded the 2020 Waislitz Global Citizen Award. Through his organization’s digital learning platform, Taleemabad, Haroon has reached over 200,000 children, providing them with quality education. With the support of the award, Orenda expanded its reach to national television and state radio, reaching an additional 8.5 million children every week. Reflecting on the award’s impact, Haroon shares, “The Waislitz Award gave us the capability to deepen our impact...we are reaching more than 54 million people across the country.”
Another inspiring story is that of Peter Njeri, CEO of Mega Gas Alternative Energy and recipient of the 2023 Waislitz Global Citizen Award. Njeri’s journey from growing up in Soweto to pioneering clean cooking energy solutions in Kenya is a testament to the power of determination and innovation. With his patented technology, Njeri is serving over 10,000 families and plans to expand his reach with the support of the award.
“Armed with a vision, unwavering faith, and relentless dedication...nothing is beyond the reach of those who dare to dream big and act boldly,” he said after accepting his award last year.
CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA
The 2024 Waislitz Global Citizen Awards has three categories to honor exceptional contributions in the fight against extreme poverty. The grand prize, the Waislitz Global Citizen Award ($100,000 prize), will be awarded to an applicant based on the five criteria listed above below; the Waislitz Global Citizen Disruptor Award ($75,000 prize) recognizes innovators who challenge the status quo and disrupt systems that perpetuate poverty. Meanwhile, the Waislitz Global Citizens’ Choice Award ($75,000 prize), determined by public online voting, celebrates individuals who inspire and mobilize communities to take action. Your vote can make a difference in recognizing and supporting these exceptional individuals.
Applicants for the Awards Will Be Evaluated Based on Five Key Criteria:
1. Global Citizenship: Demonstrating alignment with the values outlined in the Global Citizen Manifesto.
2. Proof of Concept: Providing evidence of impactful efforts towards ending extreme poverty within the past one to two years.
3. Disruption: Showcasing innovative approaches that challenge existing systems and norms.
4. Scalability: Outlining plans for scaling or expanding their initiatives to reach more people and create lasting change.
5. Adaptability: Demonstrating the ability to effectively respond to changing conditions and challenges.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The 2024 Waislitz Global Citizen Awards application process opens on May 14, 2024, and closes on June 3, 2024, at 1 p.m. EDT. To apply, you need to submit an application outlining your initiatives, impact, and plans for the future. A distinguished panel of judges will evaluate the submissions based on the abovementioned criteria, selecting the most deserving recipients of the awards.
As we embark on this journey to end extreme poverty, each of us, including you, has a crucial role. Whether you’re an innovator, an advocate, or a supporter, your contribution matters; join us in celebrating the spirit of global citizenship and honoring those leading the charge against poverty.
The 2024 Waislitz Global Citizen Awards signify a pivotal moment in the fight against extreme poverty. By recognizing and supporting individuals making a tangible difference in their communities, these awards inspire us all to strive for a better world. As we celebrate a decade of impact, let us recommit ourselves to the vision of a world without poverty, where every person’s potential is realized. Apply now and be a part of this transformative journey.