Get ready for an inspiring journey as we celebrate the 2025 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards! This event is not just about honoring global humanitarians; it's a testament to the power of compassion and the future of humanitarian efforts. But here's where it gets controversial... some might say it's just a fancy awards ceremony, but we're about to prove them wrong!
In Louisville, Kentucky, on November 8, 2025, the Muhammad Ali Center hosted its 12th annual awards ceremony, presented by Humana. This year's event marked a significant milestone - the organization's 20th anniversary - and it was a night to remember!
The Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards are a unique celebration, recognizing two distinct categories of humanitarians. The Seasoned Awards honor individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference, while the Six Core Principles Awards spotlight young adults under 30 who embody Muhammad Ali's compassionate spirit.
Lonnie Ali, co-founder and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, captured the essence of the night: "Twenty years ago, we didn't just open a museum; we lit a torch for compassion, courage, and conviction. Tonight, we're not looking back; we're looking ahead to a legacy that will continue to inspire and shake up the world."
One of the highlights of the night was the Humanitarian Award for Lifetime Achievement, presented to Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation. Walker's impact is undeniable, from his role in resolving Detroit's historic bankruptcy to his leadership in issuing a $1 billion social bond to stabilize non-profits during the COVID pandemic. But his journey is even more impressive. Before Ford, Walker was a vice president at the Rockefeller Foundation, overseeing initiatives like the Rebuild New Orleans program after Hurricane Katrina. He also played a pivotal role in revitalizing Harlem as the COO of the Abyssinian Development Corporation, building affordable housing and driving commercial development.
Walker's acceptance speech was a powerful reminder of Muhammad Ali's legacy: "Ali showed us that a fierce spirit and deep empathy go hand in hand. His words, 'Service to others is the rent I pay for my room here on earth,' are not just a saying; they're a call to action. By extending dignity, opportunity, and justice, we truly pay that rent."
Another remarkable recipient was Nancy Lieberman, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer and two-time Olympian. Lieberman received the Humanitarian of the Year Award for her work with Nancy Lieberman Charities, which has changed the lives of countless children in urban neighborhoods through scholarships, mentorship, and basketball programs. Her efforts have built "Dream Courts" in communities, providing safe spaces for children to thrive and engage with local law enforcement.
Lieberman's speech was emotional, reflecting on her lifelong connection with Muhammad Ali: "This award means so much because of my relationship with Muhammad. He was my mentor, my friend, and he gave me a path to help others. I wanted to be the G.O.A.T. in my career, but he helped me see that greatness isn't just on the court; it's in every aspect of life."
The Humanitarian Impact Award, co-presented by the Laureus Foundation, went to Anquan and Dionne Boldin, a power couple dedicated to service, social justice, and community empowerment. Together, they founded the Anquan Boldin Foundation and Sport for Impact, leveraging sports as a force for good and championing education, equity, and social justice. Anquan, a 14-year NFL veteran and Super Bowl champion, is known not only for his athletic prowess but also for his tireless advocacy for systemic reform. Dionne has been the driving force behind the foundation's growth, ensuring impact in every city they called home during Anquan's career.
Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa received the Humanitarian Award for Civility and Compassion. Under his leadership, the Muslim World League has launched initiatives to combat extremism and promote interfaith harmony, including a historic delegation to Auschwitz in 2020 and the Makkah Declaration in 2019, which brought together Muslim leaders from around the world to endorse peace and tolerance.
The night also honored six young international humanitarians who embody Muhammad Ali's Six Core Principles. Zuriel Oduwole, from the US, received the Core Principle Confidence award for her global peace mediation efforts and advocacy for girls' education. Dr. Joel Bervell, from Ghana, used social media storytelling to expose racial disparities and challenge biases in healthcare, earning him the Core Principle Conviction award. Raby Gueye, from Senegal, expanded educational opportunities, receiving the Core Principle Dedication award. Gibson Kawago, from Tanzania, pioneered clean tech and sustainable energy, earning the Core Principle Giving award. Trisha Prabhu, from the US, developed innovative technology to stop cyberbullying, receiving the Core Principle Respect award. And Charitie Ropati, from the US, used her engineering background to advocate for sustainable water solutions in rural Alaska, earning the Core Principle Spirituality award.
But this year's awards ceremony wasn't just about the past; it was a celebration of the Muhammad Ali Center's future. A $1 million grant from The PwC Foundation signaled a bold investment in the Center's mission, anchoring its role as a national leader in compassion-based education and youth leadership development.
Tracee Jones, President of The PwC Foundation, explained: "The Human Skills Project aims to build a future-ready workforce grounded in empathy and human connection. We believe that when people have the skills to adapt, collaborate, and lead with compassion, communities thrive. Through this grant, we're bringing Muhammad Ali's principles to life and inspiring others."
The grant will fuel the Center's growth, supporting new exhibits, youth initiatives, and global programs like the Muhammad Ali Index on Compassion.
The Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards are a testament to the power of humanitarian efforts and the impact of individuals who dedicate their lives to making a difference. This event is a celebration of greatness, empathy, and social impact, and we're proud to be a part of it.
Thank you to all the sponsors and donors who make these awards possible, including Humana, Brown-Forman, Laureus, ESPN, PwC, and Authentic Brands Group.
About the Muhammad Ali Center:
The Muhammad Ali Center is a 501(c)(3) organization that goes beyond being just a museum. Founded by Lonnie and Muhammad Ali in Louisville, the Center honors Ali's legacy and continues his work based on his core principles.
For more information and photos of the awardees, visit the links provided.
