The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and its flagship program, the Aurora Prize, seek to address on-the-ground humanitarian challenges around the world with a focus on helping the most destitute. On behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors, an Aurora Prize Laureate is honored each year with a US $1,000,000 award, which gives the Laureate a unique opportunity to continue the cycle of giving and to support the organizations that help others. Dedicated to discovering and supporting the world’s unsung humanitarian heroes, Aurora has already made a significant impact on the lives of over 2.7 million people in need.
The weekend of special events in Venice will feature two Aurora Dialogues discussions. The first one will present the courageous work of 2022 Aurora Humanitarians Jamila Afghani, Hadi Jumaan and Mahienour El-Massry, whereas the second is set to highlight the vital role of the young generation in addressing the issues that will define the future of humanity. World famous peace and human rights activists and humanitarians, including the members of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, as well as representatives of the Aurora community and the Initiative’s supporters, will join forces to identify ideas capable of delivering tangible positive change.
The weekend will culminate in the 2022 Aurora Prize Ceremony to be held on the San Lazzaro Island, the headquarters of the Mekhitarist Congregation and one of the world’s most prominent centers of Armenian culture and Armenian studies. This year, Aurora honors three modern-day heroes for giving access to education to girls and women in Afghanistan, liberating prisoners of war in Yemen, and defending human rights in Egypt. During the Ceremony, one of the 2022 Aurora Humanitarians will be named the 2022 Aurora Prize Laureate based on their demonstration of courage, commitment, and impact.
Nominations are currently open for the 2023 Aurora Prize. Anyone can put forward modern-day heroes who risk their own lives, health or freedom to save the lives, health or freedom of others suffering as a result of violent conflict, atrocity crimes or other major human rights violations.
