New York, NY, November 14, 2024 — dir=”ltr”>International Rescue Committee (IRC) pays tribute to Nobel laureate Dr Denis Mukwege with IRC Freedom Award 2024 and Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family with the John C. Whitehead Humanitarian Award.

Dr Denis Mukwege, world-renowned gynecologist and human rights activist, is celebrated for his tireless work with survivors of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Dr. Mukwege established Panzi Hospital in rural Congo in 1999, serving more than 85,000 women in 20 years and achieving a live birth rate of 99.1% – a monumental achievement in a country with low mortality rates child and maternal rates are among the highest in the world. the world. Her dedication to justice and women’s rights has earned her global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 and an article in the TIME Magazine 100.

David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, said: “Dr. Denis Mukwege is an extraordinary person whose work has transformed countless lives. Her unwavering commitment to women’s rights and courageous efforts to support survivors of violence embody the spirit of the IRC Freedom Award – and we are honored to recognize the immeasurable impact of her life’s work.

NBA and Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family’s journey from Nigeria as refugees to Athens – and to the highest echelon of American sports – is an inspiring story of hope, resilience and defiance against all odds. Today, the family uses their platform and family foundation, the Charles Antetokounmpo Family Foundation, to create transformative opportunities for their communities in Nigeria, Greece and the United States, and fuel lasting social change.

David Miliband added: “The Antetokounmpo family has not only lived the refugee experience, but continues to raise the needs and voices of communities in Nigeria, Greece and the United States, as well as refugees around the world. Their mission resonates deeply with that of IRC. We are proud to award them the Whitehead Award.

KPIs Freedom Prize is awarded annually to individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the global refugee crisis and to saving and improving the lives of the most vulnerable populations around the world. Past winners include Winston Churchill, Madeleine Albright, Kofi Annan and Elie Wiesel.

Named in honor of our longest serving board member and president emeritus, The John C. Whitehead Humanitarian Award is awarded to individuals whose enduring commitment to humanity embodies John’s spirit and passion for humanitarian causes, and who have made significant contributions to saving and improving lives around the world.

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