Humanitarian Zannah Bukar Mustapha Wins Global Citizen Award

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 (Bernama) -- Internationally recognised humanitarian, philanthropist, and founder of the Future Prowess Foundation School for orphans and less privileged children Zannah Bukar Mustapha has been named the 2023 recipient of the Global Citizen Award.

According to a statement, this award is an annual tribute presented by international residence and citizenship advisory firm Henley & Partners, in partnership with the Swiss nonprofit humanitarian organisation Andan Foundation.

Henley & Partners Chairman and Andan Foundation Founder, Dr Christian H. Kaelin said as a champion for the safety and education rights, Mustapha has demonstrated vision, exceptional courage, and innovation in driving change and his actions and outlook are a valuable contribution towards a more just, peaceful, and tolerant world.

“He is a true ‘game changer,’ bridging gender, political, and religious divides by helping children on both sides of the conflict come together and learn under the same roof. We need more Zannah Mustaphas in the world,” said Kaelin.

Meanwhile, thanking Henley & Partners and the Andan Foundation for their recognition of his work, Mustapha said: “Humanity’s interconnectedness in the global data sphere is now undeniable, constituting an expansive realm with limitless possibilities. In contrast, the unity among races, ethnicities, and citizens has grown increasingly delicate. Only global citizenship can heal.”

Mustapha played a critical role in mediating the release of over 100 of the Chibok school girls in a remote part of Nigeria in April 2014, giving rise to the international #BringBackOurGirls campaign, in which the school he founded in 2007 provides free education, meals, uniforms, and healthcare to the children.

The Global Citizen Award selection process is based on a majority decision of the Global Citizen Award Committee. The award itself consists of a bespoke sculptural medal designed by leading Italian artist Antonio Nocera, an award certificate signed by the Chairman of the Global Citizen Award Committee, and a monetary prize of US$25,000, which goes towards supporting the awardee’s humanitarian efforts. (US$1=RM4.72)

In addition, Henley & Partners commits to working closely with the awardee for a period of one year, raising awareness of their work and supporting the selected project through the firm’s network of more than 40 offices worldwide.

The prestigious award, which honours an individual who shows exceptional courage and commitment towards improving and supporting the global community, was presented at a gala reception during the 17th annual Global Citizenship Conference at the Shangri-La Hotel DIFC in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

-- BERNAMA