2018 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity

Armine Afeyan Appointed CEO of the Aurora…

Afeyan succeeds Arman Jilavian, who has provided…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is pleased to announce the appointment of Armine Afeyan as Chief Executive Officer. Afeyan succeeds Arman Jilavian, who has provided exemplary leadership during the organization’s first decade and will take on the role of Vice Chair of the Aurora Board.

2024–2025 Young Aurora Now Open for…

This annual call for innovative humanitarian…

Aurora is delighted to announce that the next cycle of Young Aurora is now open for submissions. Presented by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative in partnership with the United World Colleges (UWC) and with the participation of Teach for All and the African Leadership Academy (ALA), this annual competition is designed to inspire young changemakers. Student teams from UWC and ALA are given the opportunity to enter project proposals that tackle pressing humanitarian concerns within their local communities and compete for the chance to win a $10,000 grant towards the further development of their project. 

Memorial to Aurora Mardiganian and the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative honored the…

Today, the Memorial to Aurora Mardiganian and the Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide was unveiled in Yerevan, Armenia, in the park area near the Komitas Museum-Institute. The monument was envisioned and brought to life by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative. Its unveiling was followed by a special screening of Aurora's Sunrise, an award-winning animated documentary depicting Mardiganian’s remarkable journey.

Dr. Eric Esrailian Guides the Aurora…

Renowned Physician, Producer, Entrepreneur and…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced that Dr. Eric Esrailian has joined the organization as Co-Founder. Dr. Esrailian is a distinguished physician, Emmy-nominated film producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. As an Aurora Board member and the Co-Chair of the 2024 Aurora Prize events in Los Angeles, Dr. Esrailian will bring his influence and leadership expertise across various domains including academia, industry, philanthropy, and human rights advocacy to this new role, helping to steward the organization toward its 10th anniversary year and beyond.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative to…

A delegation of Aurora Humanitarians, Board…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced today that it will attend the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) 2024 Annual Meeting in New York City on September 25, 2024. The Clinton Global Initiative brings together business, government and civil society leaders to drive progress on a number of issues including climate resilience, inclusive economic growth and recovery, health equity, the full participation of women and girls, and humanitarian response efforts to crises around the globe. 

Chelsea Clinton Joins the Aurora Prize…

Public Health Advocate and Vice Chair of the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, dedicated to addressing on-the-ground humanitarian challenges around the world, has appointed Chelsea Clinton, vice chair of the Clinton Foundation, to the Selection Committee of the global Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. Dr. Clinton is renowned for her efforts to improve lives, inspire emerging leaders around the world, and drive awareness and action around critical issues including health equity.

Dr. Denis Mukwege, Congolese Gynecological…

Amid skyrocketing global humanitarian funding…

The eighth Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity was awarded Thursday evening to Dr. Denis Mukwege, a world-renowned gynecological surgeon and human rights activist from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Dr. Mukwege is the president of Panzi Hospital and Foundation in the DRC, which he founded in 1999 to address the systemic issue of maternal healthcare and maternal mortality. Amidst ongoing conflict and critical healthcare needs stemming from war, the hospital has become one of the world’s preeminent treatment centers for survivors of sexual violence in conflict.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Welcomes…

Former diplomat and Navy veteran has spent nearly…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced that Raffi Gregorian, a former diplomat and Navy veteran known for his work for the U.S. State Department, NATO, and the UN, has joined the Board of Directors of the Initiative, which was co-founded by his late father, Dr. Vartan Gregorian.

Aloe Blacc To Premiere “SHINE” Honoring…

Chart-topping and Grammy-nominated artist Aloe Blacc will debut a new single, “SHINE,” in honor of the Humanitarians  supported by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, a foundation that seeks to address on-the-ground challenges around the world.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and UCLA’s…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced its lineup of global thought leaders and local changemakers speaking at the upcoming Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity events. They will convene May 8-10 at the UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center located in the heart of UCLA’s campus.

Chronicles of Aurora: Eight Years of…

The manuscript page depicting the sketch of a new…

On April 24, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the Chronicles of Aurora manuscript was put on display in the Matenadaran, the national repository of ancient Armenian manuscripts. The showcased page is dedicated to a new memorial honoring Aurora Mardiganian, a survivor of the Armenian Genocide and the inspiration behind the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and Prize. The unveiling of the memorial in Yerevan is scheduled for the fall of 2024, but the sketch of the sculpture has already been added to the Chronicles of Aurora. This latest addition puts the finishing touches on this unique manuscript, which be displayed in the Map’s Hall of Matenadaran until May 24, 2024.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Co-Founder…

Today, we must do more than mourn the massacres…

Cambridge, Mass, April 24, 2024 – The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced that Co-Founder Noubar Afeyan has issued a global call to action to prevent a second Armenian genocide, on this 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide Day of Remembrance. Afeyan made the global call to action in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The London Times, as well as on global social media channels.

2023–2024 Young Aurora Winner

UWC Changshu China’s Enlightenment project wins…

“Young Aurora is a reminder of the importance of positive action and the small steps that we can take to find solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” said Faith Abiodun, Executive Director of UWC International, as he kicked off the Aurora Dialogues Online event titled “Facing Reality: Acknowledging Community Challenges” that was held on March 18, 2024. During the event, UWC Changshu China’s Enlightenment project was proclaimed the winner of the 2023–2024 Young Aurora competition. This year’s winning team will receive an impressive $10,000 prize to help grow their project aimed at empowering rural youth from underprivileged backgrounds.

Hamdi Ulukaya Joins the Aurora Prize…

The prominent entrepreneur is world-famous for…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced that Hamdi Ulukaya, Founder and CEO of Chobani and Founder of the Tent Partnership for Refugees, has joined the Aurora Prize Selection Committee. The US-based entrepreneur has become world-famous for both his successful business ventures and inspiring charitable work. In his new role Mr. Ulukaya will help other distinguished members of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee to choose the Aurora Prize Humanitarians and Laureate.

Aurora to Honor the Best of Humanity in Los…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative partners with…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced that a special series of events will be held from May 8–10, 2024 in Los Angeles, CA. The events, including the 2024 Aurora Prize Ceremony and the Human Rights and Humanitarian Forum, are being organized in partnership with The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA.

Aurora Co-Founder Noubar Afeyan and His…

The donation will assist over 100,000 forcibly…

Noubar Afeyan, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, and Anna Afeyan, Co-Chair of the Afeyan Foundation, announce a commitment of $2 million to serve over 100,000 displaced people from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) who were uprooted from their homes following the deadly attacks by Azerbaijan in September. The donation will be provided by the Afeyan Foundation, which previously teamed up with Aurora to help the people of Artsakh in the aftermath of the 2020 war. The latest financial support will focus on several areas including meeting basic needs, providing medical and psychosocial care, and establishing longer-term educational opportunities. 

Global Humanitarian Leaders Stand in…

The recent arrest by the government of Azerbaijan of philanthropist, businessman, Armenian citizen and co-founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, Ruben Vardanyan, is both outrageous and politically motivated. As members of the global humanitarian and human rights community we call for his immediate release.

The Aurora Prize Announces the 2024 Aurora…

Modern-Day Heroes from Bahrain, Democratic…

Award will be Announced in Los Angeles, California in May 2024 The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced the three Aurora Humanitarians who have been shortlisted for the 2024 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. The announcement was made at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting in New York City. One of the 2024 Aurora Humanitarians will be named the next Aurora Prize Laureate at a Ceremony to take place in Los Angeles, California in May 2024. The 2024 Aurora Prize Laureate will receive a US $1,000,000 award together with a unique opportunity to continue the cycle of giving by helping people in need.

Aurora Announces Projects Funded with 2022…

2022 Laureate Jamila Afghani has chosen the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has revealed the projects that have received funding from 2022 Aurora Prize Laureate Jamila Afghani. Among them are programs implemented by the Women International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF), the Noor Educational and Capacity Development Organization (NECDO), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency).

Armine Afeyan Rejoins Aurora’s Team

Yale alumna appointed the Initiative’s Executive…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced that Armine Afeyan has rejoined its team as Executive Director.

Fighting for Change: Life Stories of Aurora…

The Aurora Dialogues Online event took place on…

“We’re all here today, on Nelson Mandela Day, to hear about and from people who have dedicated their lives in service of others and to humanity – very, very befitting of a day in honor of Nelson Mandela. For those who have gathered today, this is a fitting tribute, and I would encourage everyone to think about or hear and listen for the behaviors, the decisions, the small everyday tasks that we can all take onto ourselves to better reflect those values,” noted Armine Afeyan, Executive Director of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, as she kicked off the 2023 Aurora Dialogues Online event that took place on July 18, Nelson Mandela International Day.

Nominations Close for the 2024 Aurora Prize…

675 unique candidates from across the globe put…

Nominations are now closed for the 2024 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, awarded on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors.

Chronicles of Aurora Showcased in the…

The manuscript’s newest illustrations were…

On April 24, on the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the updated Chronicles of Aurora manuscript was presented to the audience at the Matenadaran. The latest addition to this unique masterpiece – the title page for the story of 2022 Aurora Prize Laureate Jamila Afghani – was created by the children studying at the Art of Flowering miniature studio that operates at the Matenadaran. The Chronicles of Aurora manuscript will remain on display till May 20, 2023.

2022-23 Young Aurora Winner

After a closely contested final, we are thrilled…

The three finalist projects from UWC Dilijan, UWC South East Asia and UWC East Africa all chose to focus on finding innovative and creative ways to address sustainability issues within their local school environments, but the UWC Dilijan team has particularly impressed the judges.

Aurora Welcomes Louise Richardson to the…

Internationally acclaimed political scientist and…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, dedicated to the promotion of humanitarian activity around the world, has appointed Dame Louise Richardson, President of Carnegie Corporation of New York, to the Selection Committee of the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity.

Young Aurora Finalists Champion Humanitarian…

Three teams have now made it to the final of this…

UWC Dilijan, UWC South East Asia, and UWC East Africa all impressed the pre-selection panel with their choice of projects and their dedication to solving a pressing humanitarian issue within the vicinity of their school. The finalist teams will have the chance to finesse their project presentations over the coming weeks before they present them to the final panel of judges on March 23, 2023. 

Global Humanitarian Leaders Call for Urgent…

An international humanitarian airlift should be…

Members of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and leaders of the global humanitarian community have issued a statement regarding the current situation in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) that threatens to result in a full-scale humanitarian crisis in the region. Internationally known human rights defenders and peace activists are extremely concerned with the world’s indifference and call for immediate action:

New Stamp Released in Honor of 2021 Aurora…

The fundraising stamp celebrates Congolese…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has yet again teamed up with HayPost, Armenia’s national postal operator, to issue a postage stamp featuring 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate Julienne Lusenge. A human rights defender and co-founder of Women's Solidarity for Inclusive Peace and Development (SOFEPADI) and Fund for Congolese Women (FFC), her boundless courage and tireless activism have shone a light on the desperate plight of thousands of Congolese women subjected to horrific sexual abuse amidst the civil war in the country. Julienne Lusenge was named the Laureate at the Ceremony that took place in October 2021 on San Lazzaro Island in Venice, Italy.

2022 Aurora Prize Designated Organizations…

Aurora Humanitarians have selected non-profits…

Today, on World Humanitarian Day, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is pleased to reveal the designated organizations selected by the 2022 Aurora Humanitarians, one of whom will be named the 2022 Aurora Prize Laureate in Venice, Italy, on October 15, 2022. On behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors, the 2022 Aurora Prize Laureate will have a unique opportunity to continue the cycle of giving by allocating part of the $1,000,000 award to their designated organizations.

2022 Aurora Prize Ceremony to Take Place in…

The weekend of special events will feature the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced that the 2022 Aurora Prize Ceremony and special events will be organized in Venice, Italy, on October 14–16, 2022. Aurora will bring together the world’s leading humanitarians to honor modern-day heroes, celebrate the spirit of humanity, and empower the next generation of saviors.

Nominations Now Open for 2023 Aurora Prize

Anyone can put forward a life-saving modern hero

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced that the nominations are now open for the 2023 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, given on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors. 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.

2022 Young Aurora

The annual competition is presented by the Aurora…

Aurora is delighted to announce that the next cycle of Young Aurora is now open. Presented by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative in partnership with the United World Colleges (UWC) and with the participation of Teach for All and the African Leadership Academy (ALA), this annual competition provides student teams from UWC and ALA with an opportunity to enter project proposals that tackle pressing humanitarian issues affecting their school communities.

2022 Aurora Humanitarians Announced in…

Aurora honors three modern-day heroes for giving…

April 24, 2022 – Yerevan, Armenia – Today, on the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced the names of 2022 Aurora Humanitarians, chosen for their exceptional impact, courage, and commitment to putting themselves at risk to help others.

Aurora Co-Founder Vartan Gregorian’s Legacy…

Guests paid tribute to the life of extraordinary…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative joined the memorial service organized by the Carnegie Corporation of New York on April 13, 2022 at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Dr. Gregorian, President of Carnegie Corporation in New York, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, and Aurora Prize Selection Committee Member, died in April 2021.

2021 Aurora Humanitarian Paul Farmer Passed…

Aurora mourns the loss of outstanding hero who…

Dr. Paul Farmer, American medical anthropologist, professor at Harvard Medical School and co-founder and chief strategist of Partners In Health (PIH), has died on February 21, 2022.

Aurora Announces the 5th Round of Support…

25% of the 2021 Aurora Prize award funds and a…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative declared a new round of support for the projects in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) that help the people facing a grave humanitarian crisis in the aftermath of the 2020 war. Following the adjustment announced last year, 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate Julienne Lusenge has selected 13 projects that will receive the Prize funds and use them to alleviate the acute needs of the local population. Overall, with the Aurora Co-Founders’ matching contribution, Aurora will allocate $500,000 to the projects in Artsakh in this stage.

Funds Raised at the Christmas Market to Help…

Aurora and UN Armenia will support local…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and UN Armenia have announced that all proceeds from the organizations’ Christmas Market, around $25,000, will be directed to the projects helping displaced people in Armenia. The event took place in Yerevan on December 12, 2021, and was held in partnership with the Tovmasyan Charity Foundation.

New Stamp Honors 2020 Aurora Prize Laureates

Fartuun Adan and Ilwad Elman have decided to…

On the International Day for the Commemoration and Dignity of Victims of Genocide, representatives of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia and HayPost, the National Postal Operator of Armenia, presented a new stamp featuring 2020 Aurora Prize Laureates Fartuun Adan and Ilwad Elman. The mother and daughter team who lead the Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre in Somalia had been named the Aurora Prize Laureates online in 2020 but were unable to receive the Prize statuette due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. In October, Fartuun Adan was finally given the statuette at the Aurora Dialogues in Venice held during the 2021 Aurora Prize events.

Aurora and UN Armenia’s Christmas Market to…

The event also features live music and a reading…

The Christmas Market organized by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and UN Armenia and held in partnership with the Tovmasyan Charity Foundation will take place very soon, on December 12, 2021, from 10:00 am till 8:00 pm in the festively decorated Dvin Music Hall (40 Paronyan Street, Yerevan, Armenia).

Aurora and UN Armenia to Organize a…

A chance to make a real difference for the people…

The winter season is fast approaching, and the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and UN Armenia are glad to announce that they will host a Christmas Market to benefit those in need. The event, held in partnership with the Tovmasyan Charity Foundation, will raise funds for Aurora’s programs and the UN projects in Armenia, as well as contribute to the appreciation of charity and promote giving back. All the proceeds will go to support the projects across the globe that help people suffering as a result of wars, atrocity crimes or other major human rights violations.

Nominations Close for the 2022 Aurora Prize…

Hundreds of people from across the globe have…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced the end of the nomination period for the seventh Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. Nominations officially opened on April 24, 2021, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, following the announcement of five 2021 Aurora Humanitarians, chosen by the Aurora Prize Selection Committee for their courage, commitment and impact. Overall, a total of 633 submissions have been received for the 2022 Aurora Prize, hailing from 62 countries including Armenia, Brazil, Czech Republic, Georgia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, USA and Ukraine.  

Aurora Honors the Memory of Vartan Gregorian…

The announcement was made during the 2021 Aurora…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has allocated $50,000 to support the library of the Mekhitarist Congregation of San Lazzaro in memory of Aurora Co-Founder and member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee Vartan Gregorian, who sadly passed away in 2021. The grant was announced during the 2021 Aurora Prize events in Venice.

Waterford Kamhlaba UWCSA Wins 2021 Young…

The Seed of Hope project aims to empower young…

The fifth year of Young Aurora has come to an end and after an eye-opening final involving teams from UWC Atlantic, UWC East Africa and Waterford Kamhlaba UWCSA (WK UWCSA), Aurora is delighted to reveal that the latter are the winning team of 2021 with their Seed of Hope project.

2021 Aurora Prize Laureate Julienne Lusenge

Co-founder of Women's Solidarity for Inclusive…

The sixth annual Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity was awarded today to Julienne Lusenge, a human rights defender, co-founder of Women's Solidarity for Inclusive Peace and Development (SOFEPADI) and Fund for Congolese Women (FFC), who has been helping the victims of wartime sexual violence for years.

Aurora to Honor the Spirit of Humanity in…

The events in Italy will highlight the universal…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has prepared a unique program for the 2021 Aurora Prize Ceremony and accompanying events that will take place in Venice, Italy, on October 8–10. In accordance with the tradition established over the years, every Ceremony features carefully curated cultural impressions honoring the spirit of our shared humanity, and the events in Venice will include some outstanding performances to celebrate modern-day heroes.

Aurora to Refocus Prize on Immediate Crises

The Initiative will direct resources to the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced the adjustment of the structure of its flagship program, the Aurora Prize. From 2022 onwards, half of the Prize award will be directed by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative to combat one of the worst humanitarian crises where human suffering requires urgent intervention. In addition, this year, considering the acute needs of the people of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) affected by the 2020 war, Aurora will recommend the 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate to direct $250,000 (or 25%) of the award funds to addressing urgent humanitarian issues in Artsakh. The Aurora Co-Founders are committed to matching this contribution to bring the total amount to $500,000.

Celebrating the Three Finalist Teams of 2021…

The project teams from UWC Atlantic, UWC East…

We are excited to announce that the project teams from UWC Atlantic, UWC East Africa and Waterford Kamhlaba UWCSA have been selected as the three finalists for the fifth annual Young Aurora. The project is a partnership between the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, United World Colleges, Scholae Mundi and Teach For All. Each year, it provides student teams from the participating campuses with the opportunity to enter a project proposal that aims to tackle a humanitarian issue affecting a community in the schools’ vicinity. All three finalist teams will now prepare for the final presentation of their projects before the jury on October 14, 2021.

Dele Olojede Joins the Aurora Prize…

Prominent Nigerian journalist will use his unique…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is glad to announce that prominent Nigerian journalist Dele Olojede, the first African-born person to win a Pulitzer Prize, has joined the Selection Committee of the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. In this new capacity, he will assist Nobel Laureates, former presidents, prominent political figures, highly respected humanitarians and well-known human rights activists dedicated to recognizing modern-day heroes and their exceptional impact. Every year, members of the Selection Committee review a shortlist of candidates and select the Aurora Humanitarians to later name one of them the Aurora Prize Laureate.

Aurora Strengthens Presence in Artsakh

The program expands with a new local office and…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative continues to expand the Aurora for Artsakh program and has launched another call for applications for the projects to join the program. As humanity observes the World Humanitarian Day, the Initiative is also glad to announce that its new office has been opened in Stepanakert, Artsakh to streamline Aurora’s local humanitarian activities, strengthen its presence in the region, and support Artsakh’s international standing.

Statement of the Aurora Humanitarian…

We mourn the loss of esteemed lawyer Kyaw Hla…

Though imprisoned for a collective 12 years for ‘crimes’ including filing petitions and protesting peacefully, Kyaw Hla Aung had never stopped using his skills as an attorney to seek justice for the millions of Rohingya Muslims subject to persecution in and fleeing from Myanmar. Mr. Aung had faced both personal and systemic challenges in protecting a community threatened in its own homeland, but never backed down.

2021 Aurora Prize Ceremony to Take Place in…

The ceremony and the accompanying weekend of…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced that the 2021 Aurora Prize events will take place in Venice, Italy, on October 8-10, 2021. In addition to the Ceremony, during which the 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate will be named and the Aurora Dialogues, there will be ample opportunities for the guests and participants, including members of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, Aurora Humanitarians, and other representatives of Aurora’s community, to explore the rich Armenian legacy of this location.

New Round of Aurora’s Support for Artsakh

Nine new projects bring the total of funded…

The Aurora for Artsakh program created to help children and adults facing a grave humanitarian crisis in the aftermath of the 2020 Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) war continues to assist projects that support and facilitate the region’s long-term social development. As announced earlier, one of the guiding principles of the program remains keeping it fast, efficient, and unencumbered by bureaucracy.

“He Can Only Be Described as a Force of…

Honoring the life of Aurora Co-Founder Vartan…

On June 5, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative held an Aurora Dialogues Online event titled “Vartan Gregorian. The Aurora Co-Founder,” focused on Vartan Gregorian’s extraordinary life as humanitarian, educator and mentor. The tribute was moderated by David Ignatius, Associate Editor and Columnist for the Washington Post, with speakers including Aurora Co-Founders, Aurora Prize Selection Committee members and Aurora Prize Laureates. The viewers also had a chance to watch several videos featuring Vartan Gregorian over the years and hear him speak about the issues closest to his heart.

Vartan Gregorian. The Aurora Co-Founder

Global humanitarian community to commemorate the…

On June 5, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative will host an Aurora Dialogues Online event titled “Vartan Gregorian. The Aurora Co-Founder,” set to bring together representatives of the global humanitarian community and commemorate the life of Aurora Co-Founder and member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee Vartan Gregorian – an outstanding Armenian American humanitarian who was a man of great inner strength and a reservoir of compassion. After his passing in April 2021, a series of events dedicated to honoring his legacy was organized in Armenia. The June 5 online event will be broadcast live on the Aurora channels on Facebook in three languages – English, Armenian and Russian – at 10 am (EDT).

2022 Aurora Prize Nominations Are Open

Time to put forward inspiring heroes from across…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced the opening of the nomination period for the 2022 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity and called for putting forward inspiring humanitarians from across the globe. The announcement was made during a special event at the Matenadaran, where the names of 2021 Aurora Humanitarians were also revealed in accordance with the tradition.

2021 Young Aurora

17 project teams from the UWC schools and the…

We are delighted to share that 2021 Young Aurora is now underway with 17 project teams from across the UWC schools and the African Leadership Academy having announced their participation and ready to submit their project proposals in June.

Partnership for Artsakh

Aurora Dialogues: A Common Platform to Understand…

Not only security, social and economic issues need to be addressed to stabilize the situation in Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), strengthen and restore it after the 2020 war, but also a special priority should be given to human resources and high-quality specialists in Artsakh who will be involved in the restoration work on the ground – this was the conclusion made by the participants of the Aurora Dialogues event titled “Partnership for Artsakh” that was held in UWC Dilijan on May 2, 2021. The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative had brought together the partners of the Aurora for Artsakh program, local and Diaspora organizations, foundations, government agencies and mass media representatives.

Chronicles of Aurora: Inscription Ceremony…

2021 Aurora Humanitarians’ names were added to…

Following the tradition, on April 24, 2021, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, Aurora revealed the Aurora Humanitarians of the year, whose names were inscribed in the Chronicles of Aurora, a unique 21st century manuscript containing the depictions of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative activities, featuring the stories of the Aurora Humanitarians and Laureates, and reflecting the Aurora Prize impact. Later this year, the name of the 2021 Aurora Prize Laureate will be added to the manuscript as well. 

Aurora Welcomes US President Biden's…

Message of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative…

On behalf of the supporters of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, we express our gratitude to United States President Joseph R. Biden for commemorating the Armenian Genocide and calling that atrocity by its true name.

2021 Aurora Humanitarians Announced

The Initiative honors five outstanding activists,…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has revealed the names of five 2021 Aurora Humanitarians, chosen by the Aurora Prize Selection Committee for their courage, commitment and impact. The announcement was made today at the Matenadaran, the national repository of ancient manuscripts located in Yerevan, Armenia. During this special event, the attendees also paid tribute to the great scholar and philanthropist Vartan Gregorian, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, who passed away a few days ago. In accordance with the tradition, the names of the 2021 Aurora Humanitarians have been inscribed in the Chronicles of Aurora, a unique 21st century manuscript containing the depictions of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative activities.

Statement of the Aurora Humanitarian…

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Aurora Co-Founder and member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee Vartan Gregorian (1934–2021) – an outstanding Armenian-American humanitarian, scholar, author, educator and mentor and a dear friend to many of us.

2021 Aurora Humanitarians Announcement and…

The Initiative will honor modern-day heroes and …

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative will organize a series of events in April 2021 to honor the memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide, to recognize this year’s Aurora Humanitarians and to further contribute to the resolution of the humanitarian crisis in Artsakh. The events will bring together both local and international stakeholders and will help them join forces, maximizing the impact.

Aurora Prize Selection Committee Member…

Founder of Médecins Sans Frontières stands in…

Internationally renowned humanitarian and physician Bernard Kouchner has arrived to Armenia at the invitation of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative that continues to bring the world humanitarian leaders to Armenia and Artsakh, exploring new opportunities to help the local population and to support Artsakh’s international standing.

Aurora Initiates a Strategic Shift in the…

The Initiative to focus on supporting sustainable…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced a fundamental upgrade of its Artsakh Aid program, which from now on will be focused on assisting projects that support and facilitate the region’s long-term social development. The program, launched by Aurora in the aftermath of the war, had earlier been providing urgent humanitarian aid to the people of Artsakh on the basis of the #AraratChallenge crowdfunding initiative. In addition, the Aurora Co-Founders Noubar Afeyan, Vartan Gregorian and Ruben Vardanyan have donated on behalf of Aurora $1 million to Hayastan All Armenian Fund for Artsakh aid programs.

Aurora Directs Over $470,000 to Artsakh Aid…

Former Artsakh Education Minister Narine…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative continues to broaden its humanitarian program in Artsakh. Aurora’s international standing and its vast network of engaged donors, experts, humanitarians and beneficiaries are being used to provide support to the people of Artsakh and ensure effective solutions on the ground.

Aurora Supports Digital Matenadaran

The Initiative continues to collaborate with the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has allocated a US $10,000 grant to the Matenadaran, the national repository of ancient manuscripts named after Mesrop Mashtots, to help it create Digital Matenadaran and present its main exhibition hall online. This new project will give visitors an opportunity to take a virtual walk around the central hall of one of the world’s largest museums of Armenian manuscripts. Digital Matenadaran, planned to occupy a new section at the Matenadaran’s website, will be designed as a virtual exhibition with both text and audio descriptions. It will allow users to virtually stroll through the exhibition and to study more than 100 items of manuscript treasures, including exclusive samples of Armenian miniatures, presented in high-resolution digitalized copies with zoom-in options.

Aurora Doubles Artsakh Aid Program

$400,000 to Support 46 Local and International…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative doubled its humanitarian aid program for Artsakh, adding numerous local and international projects to the list in phase two. After the war, the people of Artsakh faced a grave humanitarian crisis that continues to unfold amidst a global pandemic, and Aurora stepped up to bring them immediate relief. Aurora’s humanitarian aid program for Artsakh has since doubled, with a total budget of $400,000 (over 208,000.000֏) allocated to support 46 projects listed below.  Among them are the initiatives run by the HALO Trust and the Near East Foundation (NEF) – with contributions to both matched – reflecting further development of Aurora’s global cooperation with international partner organizations possessing relevant expertise.

2019 Aurora Prize Laureate Mirza Dinnayi…

Yazidi activist will meet with local community…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is happy to announce that Yazidi activist Mirza Dinnayi, 2019 Aurora Prize Laureate and Co-Founder and Director of Luftbrücke Irak (Air Bridge Iraq), has arrived in Yerevan. Mr. Dinnayi plans to attend several events before travelling to Artsakh and will remain in Armenia until December 11, 2020.

Aurora to Coordinate Volunteers Helping…

The Initiative will link projects in need of…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is happy to announce that it continues helping the people of Artsakh and that the program is currently entering a new phase, during which Aurora’s established network will be used to connect volunteers willing to donate their time and expertise with humanitarian organizations in need of assistance on the ground. At the same time, Aurora keeps providing direct aid to twenty different projects with a total budget of AMD 102 million ($200,000) and running the international #AraratChallenge4Artsakh fundraising campaign.

Aurora Continues Helping People of Artsakh:…

The global Aurora Humanitarian Initiative…

At this stage, 14 projects with a total budget of $116,600 have already been confirmed. Humanitarian assistance proposals can be submitted to Aurora at info@auroraprize.com. The program was launched on November 18. The selection and support criteria for the projects are currently being revised and will be made public on Monday, November 23. On November 24, a preliminary report on the implementation of the confirmed projects will be presented; and on November 25, next projects to be supported will be announced.

Aurora clarifies the procedure for providing…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative continues…

It will be remembered that applications to info@auroraprize.com began to be accepted on November 18, and during this period more than 130 applications have been received. The first 5 applications for a total of $30,050 have been confirmed and the funding process for them has begun. At this stage, Aurora has decided to support requests for assistance received from charity organizations working in the field, as well as from state and non-governmental institutions involved in providing assistance to citizens in Armenia and Artsakh. 

First Aurora Humanitarian Aid Projects for…

The global Aurora Humanitarian Initiative’s…

The following projects were announced as the first to be selected:

BREAKING: AURORA begins implementing…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative urgently…

The first assistance programs will be announced today, November 18, 2020.  

UWC East Africa Named 2020 Young Aurora…

Results were announced during the 2020 Aurora…

Young Aurora is part of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and for the past four years it has provided students from UWC schools and, since 2018, the African Leadership Academy with the opportunity to design and implement projects that will make a positive impact by addressing an area of humanitarian concern in their local school community.

Nominations Close for the 2021 Aurora Prize…

This year’s submissions yielded an impressive 585…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced that the nomination period for the sixth annual Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity has ended on October 31, 2020. This year, hundreds of submissions have been received, resulting in 585 unique candidates being nominated for the Prize.

Aurora Prize Selection Committee Statement

Esteemed Humanitarians Honor Aurora’s Impact Over…

On October 19, 2020, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has launched “Gratitude in Action,” a series of events planned to mark its fifth anniversary. The series began with a live event from The New York Public Library in New York City.

AURORA’S MAIN EVENT IN NYC HELD SUCCESSFULLY…

The broadcast brought together the global Aurora…

On October 19, 2020 at 7 pm local time the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative’s event of the year, honoring the Aurora Humanitarians and the Initiative’s 5th anniversary, took place in New York City.

Watch It Live: Aurora’s Gratitude in Action

The virtual event in NYC will honor the unsung…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative invites everyone to join the “Gratitude in Action” virtual event that will be broadcast live from The New York Public Library in New York City. To watch the event on Facebook, join us here or tune in on Aurora Prize’s YouTube channel at 6:55 PM New York Time (GMT-4) on October 19, 2020.

All-Armenian Prayer for Peace and Gratitude

Aurora brings together representatives of all…

On October 16, Armenian faith leaders gathered for a collective prayer organized in New York City as the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative continues encouraging everyone to contribute to the world peace and commemorating the generosity of those who helped Armenians a century ago. The representatives of all main Armenian spiritual institutions prayed together in St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral for peace to be restored in Artsakh and Armenia and every corner of the world where people are affected by ongoing armed conflicts, and paid tribute to the generosity of those who helped Armenians, Greeks, Chaldeans and Assyrians over a century ago.

Inaugural Aurora Humanitarian Journalism…

Acclaimed Reporters Jane Ferguson and Nicholas…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced today that the inaugural Aurora Humanitarian Journalism Award will be presented to journalists Jane Ferguson and Nicholas Kristof on October 19, 2020, during the first event of the “Gratitude in Action” series planned to mark Aurora’s fifth anniversary.

Aurora to Give a $100,000 Grant to the…

The Initiative pays tribute to New York City…

For a few unprecedented weeks earlier this year, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst was known as New York City’s COVID hospital, experiencing the biggest surge of COVID-19 patients in all five boroughs. On October 19, 2020 the hospital will receive a $100,000 grant from the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative to honor the extreme heroism and humanity of the doctors, nurses and staff who have served on the frontlines of the pandemic in one of the most ethnically diverse and economically challenged immigrant communities in the United States. As the hospital passes the seven-month mark of the COVID-19 crisis and plans for the future, their teams are more focused than ever on community outreach programs, chronic disease education, and other initiatives that will help strengthen the health of their communities well into the future. 

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Founders to…

Funds will support immediate humanitarian needs…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative founders, Noubar Afeyan, Vartan Gregorian and Ruben Vardanyan, today announced a commitment of $2 million in assistance to cover immediate needs in Armenia and Artsakh and to secure funding to provide educational and other support for the young generation of the two Armenian republics affected by the war.

Statement of the Aurora Humanitarian…

We are deeply alarmed and saddened by the large…

This adventurism of Azerbaijan carried out with support of Turkey is a gross violation of international humanitarian law. We condemn in the strongest terms the escalation of violence by targeting the civilians with large caliber weapons and attacks on the civilian infrastructures. It is our firm belief that a sustainable settlement to the conflict can be achieved solely by peaceful negotiations.

Aurora to Kick off a Global Series of Events…

The “Gratitude in Action” Series will honor the…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is happy to announce the launch of “Gratitude in Action,” a series of celebrations planned to mark its fifth anniversary. The series will kick off on October 19 with a live event broadcast at 7:00 pm local time from the New York Public Library in New York City, where the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative was launched in 2015 by Noubar Afeyan, founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering, Vartan Gregorian, President of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, and Ruben Vardanyan, impact investor and social entrepreneur.

2020 Aurora Prize Laureates Fartuun Adan and…

Somali Mother-and-Daughter Human Rights Activists…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative awarded the fifth annual Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity to Fartuun Adan and Ilwad Elman, the mother and daughter team who lead the Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre in Somalia. As Aurora Prize Laureates, they will receive a US $1,000,000 award and a unique opportunity to continue the cycle of giving by supporting the organizations that have inspired their humanitarian action. Fartuun Adan and Ilwad Elman have selected three organizations – Love Does, Panzi Foundation, and Prajwala – that fight for freedom and human rights, provide healthcare to marginalized populations, and save victims of sex-trafficking to be the beneficiaries of their million dollar prize.

Young Aurora 2020: The Three Finalists

We are delighted to announce that Project Teams…

We congratulate all three teams as they are preparing to present their projects to the final jury on November 3. We are so proud of all students who, despite all changes and disruptions to their educational journeys due to Covid-19, did not let this stop them from putting their humanitarian ideas into action, in this year where they are especially needed.

Aurora to Support the Reprint of “Ravished…

A grant from Aurora will help the Armenian…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is glad to announce that it will support the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute in its unprecedented efforts to republish “Ravished Armenia” by Aurora Mardiganian with additional references and explanatory notes. This unique publication in Armenian and English will mark the symbolic start of the Mémoires of Survivors of the Armenian Genocide Series, a milestone project of the Museum-Institute.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Pledges $200…

The Initiative stands in solidarity with the…

The Co-Founders of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Noubar Afeyan, Vartan Gregorian and Ruben Vardanyan, and the Chair of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee Lord Ara Darzi have announced that Aurora will donate $200.000 to support citizens of Beirut, Lebanon and will launch an online fundraising campaign for the Armenian Community of Beirut by #AraratChallenge, Aurora’s global humanitarian crowdfunding platform.

Aurora’s #AraratChallenge Turns One

The crowdfunding movement will support…

On July 19, 2020, the #AraratChallenge movement turned one. Launched a year ago during a symbolic ceremony held next to the Armenian Genocide Memorial, #AraratChallenge is a global crowdfunding initiative reflecting the impact of the Aurora humanitarian movement. In everlasting memory of 1,500,000 innocent martyrs who perished in the Armenian Genocide, it intends to unite at least 1,500,000 contributors and supporters globally and has already brought together more than 24,000 people, raising more than $180,000.

Aurora to Honor International Humanitarians…

The fundraising event in New York City will mark…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is glad to announce that on October 19, 2020, a special Gratitude in Action luncheon will be organized in New York City to celebrate Aurora’s fifth anniversary by honoring the five Aurora Prize Laureates and paying tribute to New York City COVID-19 heroes.

2020 Young Aurora

The program aims to encourage, support, and…

We are very pleased to announce that, amidst all the difficulties caused by the current situation, 13 project teams from UWC schools and the African Leadership Academy will be taking part in the 2020 Young Aurora. The project is a partnership between the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, United World Colleges, Scholae Mundi and Teach For All. Student teams at each of the participating schools will enter one project per school for the chance to present their initiative, this year virtually, to an accomplished panel of humanitarians, entrepreneurs and world leaders in October. Project teams are assessed for the level of creativity, sustainability, quality of research and potential for impact that their project proposals demonstrate, alongside the degree of commitment and self-reflection shown by the team. The winning team will receive a $4,000 grant towards the further development of their project. 

Nominations Open for the 2021 Aurora Prize

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative calls for…

On April 24, 2020, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative officially announced the opening of the nomination period for the 2021 Aurora Prize and called for putting forward inspiring humanitarians who go to extreme lengths to save the lives of others, including those fighting the global outbreak of COVID-19.

2020 Aurora Humanitarians Announced

On April 24, 2020, on the Armenian Genocide…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative hosted an online discussion to honor those who perished a century ago and celebrate modern heroes, including those fighting the global outbreak of COVID-19. In accordance with the symbolic traditions upheld by the Initiative for many years, Aurora revealed the names of 2020 Aurora Humanitarians, chosen by the Aurora Prize Selection Committee for their courage, commitment and impact.

Aurora. Standing in Solidarity

Special Online Discussion on April 24, 2020

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative will have an online discussion on April 24, 2020, the Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, at 8:30 am (PDT), 11:30 am (EDT), 3:30 pm (GMT), 6:30 pm (GMT+3), 7:30 pm (GMT+4) to honor those who perished a century ago and celebrate modern heroes, including those fighting the global outbreak of COVID-19. The names of the 2020 Aurora Humanitarians will also be announced during the event.

Statement of the Aurora Humanitarian…

Aurora directs #AraratChallenge funds to support…

On behalf of the partners and supporters of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, we would like to confirm that during the outbreak of COVID-19 we fully intend to continue our global efforts to help the most vulnerable while supporting local health professionals on the front lines.

Paul Polman Joins Aurora Prize Selection…

Co-founder and Chair of IMAGINE will contribute…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has confirmed the appointment of Paul Polman, Co-Founder and Chair of IMAGINE and former CEO of Unilever, to the Aurora Prize Selection Committee.

New Recipients of Vartan Gregorian…

Researchers Asya Darbinyan and Knar Khachatryan…

Asya Darbinyan with a research project Armenian Refugees of the War and Genocide and Russian Imperial Humanitarianism and a team of scholars led by Knar Khachatryan with their project Urbanization and Socioeconomic Development in Armenia: A Throwback to More Than One Century, were named the new recipients of the Vartan Gregorian Scholarship (Research Grants) Program.

Nominations for 2020 Aurora Prize for…

Received submissions feature 593 unique…

Nominations for the 2020 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity are now closed. The nomination period had officially opened on May 16, 2019, the International Day of Living Together in Peace declared by the UN to uphold the desire to live and act together in order to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity and harmony. Since then, hundreds of submissions have been received, featuring an unprecedented 593 unique candidates.

STATEMENT BY CO-FOUNDERS AND CHAIR

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Statement on the…

On behalf of the partners and supporters of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, we would like to extend our gratitude to the United States House of Representatives for passing H. Res. 296 405-11, which recognizes by its true name, a genocide, the extermination of 1.5 million innocent Armenians by Ottoman Turkish Empire a century ago.  

Lord Ara Darzi to Chair the Aurora Prize…

The announcement was made during the inaugural…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced the appointment of Lord Ara Darzi as Chair of Aurora Prize Selection Committee. Academy-award winning actor and director and philanthropist George Clooney will remain on the Committee as its Honorary Co-Chair, sharing this position with world famous peace and human rights activist Benjamin Ferencz. The announcement was made during the inaugural Aurora Forum taking place in Armenia in October 2019.

2019 Aurora Prize Laureate announced as…

Aurora honors the Yazidi activist for rescuing…

The fourth annual Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity was awarded today to Mirza Dinnayi, Co-Founder and Director of Luftbrücke Irak (Air Bridge Iraq). Driven by his passion to save lives, the Yazidi activist has found a way to overcome numerous bureaucratic and logistic obstacles to help the most vulnerable members of the Yazidi community during numerous conflicts in Syria and Iraq.

Stamp for Humanity

New stamp features 2018 Aurora Prize Laureate…

A special ceremony dedicated to the cancellation of a new international postage stamp by HayPost, featuring 2018 Aurora Prize Laureate Kyaw Hla Aung, was held on October 16, 2019, during the inaugural Aurora Forum, in the Kamar Business Center in Yerevan.

GENERAL SPONSORS OF THE INAUGURAL AURORA…

The Forum is thankful to its generous supporters:…

Yerevan, Armenia – The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and organizing partners of the inaugural Aurora Forum are pleased to announce that the Yerevan Brandy Company, Armenia TV and The Alexander, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Yerevan are the event’s general sponsors. The Co-Founders are proud that such respected and well-known Armenian organizations have come on board to sponsor the Aurora Forum.

Сall Opens for Research Grant Applications

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative kicks off the…

On the second Saturday of October, the Holy Translators Day, Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced a call for applications for the 2019-2020 Vartan Gregorian Scholarship (Research Grants) Program. The scholarship, launched in 2018, was created for early-career scholars and researchers who study the underexplored aspects of the history of Armenia and Armenian Diaspora in the 20th century.

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative receives…

A delegation from the Aurora Humanitarian…

The visit was part of a wider trip from the group to Rome, during which a series of meetings with Vatican and community leaders was held.

Commemorative Tree Planting Ceremony to Be…

Armenia Tree Project and Aurora Humanitarian…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and the Armenia Tree Project are glad to announce that a tree-planting event in Tsitsernakaberd will be organized during the inaugural Aurora Forum on October 20, 2019. A new grove of trees to be planted will be named after Aurora Mardiganian, one of the Armenian Genocide survivors remembered for her extraordinary resilience and generosity, in spite of the suffering she had faced, and being the inspiration behind the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity.

Gratitude in Action Takes Center Stage at…

Aurora Prize Ceremony and Aurora Tribute and…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announced that the Aurora Prize Ceremony to take place on October 19, 2019 will be open to the public. The Initiative also confirmed a tribute and fundraising concert featuring the Mariinsky Theatre Symphonic Orchestra conducted by Valery Gergiev to take place on October 20, 2019.

Aurora Forum Goodwill Ambassador and Two…

World-renowned musician, humanitarian to headline…

September 23, 2019 – Dana Leong, the world’s top electric cellist and trombone player, will participate in the #AraratChallenge Fest to take place at the Freedom Square in Yerevan, Armenia on October 19 and 20, 2019, during the inaugural Aurora Forum. Aimed at inspiring a grassroot movement around humanitarian actions, the two-day festival combines culture and education, and features inspiring public talks, musical performances, discussions, lectures and masterclasses.

2019 Young Aurora: The Three Finalists

All three teams will present their projects…

It is our pleasure to announce that after a highly competitive process involving student-initiated projects from across UWC schools and colleges and the African Leadership Academy, the three project teams selected for the final stage are: Smokeless Kitchens from UWC East Africa, Precious Plastic from UWC Pearson College and Young Voices from UWC Atlantic College. We congratulate all three teams as they prepare to present their projects during the inaugural Aurora Forum in Armenia on October 18.

#AraratChallenge Global Campaign Inspires…

Aurora celebrates the participants of the …

September 6, 2019 – Aurora Humanitarian Initiative celebrates the participants of the global #AraratChallenge crowdfunding campaign who have donated $1 per month or more to give a second chance to the world’s most vulnerable.

Maison Shalom, Home to Burundian and East…

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Co-Founder Ruben…

Maison Shalom, an international NGO that cares for thousands of orphan children and refugees from war-torn Burundi, will celebrate its 25th Anniversary with a program featuring public talks and discussion panels by distinguished philanthropists and experts on topics such as humanitarianism, education, among other pressing global issues.

Aurora Prize Laureate Tom Catena to Speak at…

Chair of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative will…

Dr. Tom Catena, Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Chair and 2017 Aurora Prize Laureate, will participate as speaker at the 2019 World Health Summit to take place on October 27-29, 2019 in Berlin, Germany. Dr. Catena will join leading healthcare experts and decision-makers from around the globe to discuss ways to advance global health agendas and promote science thought leadership.

Distinguished Peace Activist Benjamin…

Prominent international lawyer will become the…

July 29, 2019 – The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is honored to announce that Benjamin Ferencz, world famous peace and human rights activist, has joined the Selection Committee of the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity as its Honorary Co-Chair. The well-known Romanian-born American lawyer, who has been promoting the establishment of an international rule of law for many years, will be a global ambassador of the Aurora Prize.  

Volunteer Now to Take Part in the Inaugural…

Aurora Forum is calling for volunteers to…

Responsible and energetic individuals are welcomed to become part of a groundbreaking event and contribute to the international Aurora Forum, which will take place on October 14-21, 2019 and bring together change-makers of the world and global leaders to discuss and share knowledge on today’s most advanced humanitarian and educational practices to further social, cultural, scientific, and technological transformation.  

Ararat Challenge: The Second Chance Our…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative launches the …

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced the #AraratChallenge, a new crowdfunding campaign aimed at supporting those in urgent need of basic humanitarian aid around the world. The #AraratChallenge is a video-based crowdfunding campaign set to increase the impact and reach of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, whose projects combat poverty, improve healthcare and provide education to those in need. This call-to-donate seeks to inspire and engage people to embrace Aurora’s mission of empowering successive generations of humanitarians.

2019 AURORA PRIZE CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE ON…

Restructured event will feature a special charity…

The fourth Aurora Prize Ceremony will take place in Yerevan on October 20, 2019 and will be divided into a two-part ceremony, featuring the Aurora Prize itself and a concert by the remarkable Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Valery Gergiev. This unique global humanitarian Prize is awarded annually by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors. The Ceremony will showcase Aurora Humanitarians – individuals who have done extraordinary work and had exceptional impact on human life by saving the desperate and abandoned and advancing the cause of humanitarianism in the face of adversity. One of these three Aurora Humanitarians will receive a $1 million grant to continue the cycle of giving by supporting the organizations they have chosen.  

2019 Aurora Humanitarians

The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity…

The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity’s Selection Committee has named three outstanding 2019 Aurora Humanitarians, recognized for performing acts of exceptional courage and their commitment to saving human life. The 2019 Aurora Prize Laureate will be announced at a ceremony in Armenia on October 20, 2019. With a $1 million award the Laureate will get an opportunity to continue the cycle of giving and support the organizations that have inspired their work.

Students from United World Colleges to…

Aurora Humanitarian Project will provide UWC…

Applications for the 2019 Aurora Humanitarian Project for UWC schools and colleges are now being accepted. The project, recognized as “Young Aurora,” is a partnership between the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, United World Colleges (UWC), Scholae Mundi and Teach for All. It provides an opportunity for UWC schools and colleges to design projects that will drive positive change in the community through humanitarian solutions. The winning team will be awarded a $4,000 grant to implement their project. Now in its third year, 17 schools and colleges have participated in the Young Aurora Project till date. Previous project proposals have presented solutions to a diverse range of critical humanitarian issues identified near their schools and colleges in countries including Eswatini, Germany, India and China.

111 PROMINENT INDIVIDUALS FROM AROUND THE…

The Aurora Forum is proud to announce that 111 influencers from political, academic, entertainment, and business sectors around the world have joined the Aurora Forum as Goodwill Ambassadors, showing their dedication to tackling some of our time’s and future generation’s most pressing global challenges.  Aurora Forum Co-Founders Noubar Afeyan, Vartan Gregorian, and Ruben Vardanyan welcome the Goodwill Ambassadors as luminaries of Aurora’s vision to promote innovative and effective approaches to advancing positive social change in Armenia and beyond.

Aurora Will Help Matenadaran Present…

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative continues to support the Matenadaran, Armenia’s national repository of ancient manuscripts, with a new grant of $20,000. With these funds, the Matenadaran will commission the preparation and design of an interactive table-map of Armenian Scriptoria.

Surgeon and Missionary Dr. Tom Catena…

Co-Founders kick-start global Aurora Movement by…

12 December 2018 – The Co-Founders of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative have announced Dr. Tom Catena, an American physician and Catholic missionary from Amsterdam, New York has joined the organisation as Chair.

VARTAN GREGORIAN SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM…

New $30,000 research grants for academics and…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announces a call for applications for new research grants. The Vartan Gregorian Scholarship (Research Grants) Program will support exceptional early-career scholars and researchers, with a specific focus on historians and social scientists, in their efforts to study the unexplored questions of the 20th century history of Armenia.

Eleven refugees and at-risk youth receive…

Aurora Humanitarian Initiative puts Gratitude…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has announced eleven recipients of Aurora Gratitude Scholarships. Young people from seven Middle Eastern countries began their studies at United World Colleges (UWC) around the world in September 2018. The scholarships allow students to live safely, with support and receive a strong education. All recipients are either refugees, living with the loss of one or both parents, or come from marginalized communities.   

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR $1.1 MILLION 2019…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is calling for…

George Clooney Honors Vartan Gregorian for…

Kyaw Hla Aung Announced as 2018 Aurora Prize…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative honors the…

Aurora Dialogues conference 2018

The 2018 Dialogues conference at the Matenadaran …

Ambassador Samantha Power and John…

Aurora Prize Selection Committee member…

2018 Aurora Humanitarians visit Armenia

2018 Humanitarians tour of Garni, Geghard, and…

2018 Aurora Humanitarians visit Armenian…

Presentation of the book "Armenian Legacy in…

Three Inspirational Humanitarian Activists…

The Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity…

24 APRIL 2018 – YEREVAN – Today, the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity Selection Committee announced three humanitarians as potential recipients of the 2018 Prize. Each individual was chosen for their exceptional courage, far-reaching impact and endless commitment to preserving human life and advancing humanitarian causes in the face of adversity.

Ambassador Samantha Power Joins the Aurora…

Leading humanitarian luminary Ambassador Power…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative announces Former United States Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power as the newest member of the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity Selection Committee. As a part of the Selection Committee, Ambassador Power will join the other esteemed humanitarians, human rights activists and former heads of state to determine future recipients for the annual $1.1 million Aurora Prize.

Aurora Dialogues Berlin

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative Hosts an…

Aurora Dialogues Berlin, “Millions on The Move: Need for Development and Integration,” will explore how the European Union, and Germany specifically, can contribute to humanitarian solutions by supporting development and integration. The event will be held on December 4-5, 2017 at the Robert Bosch Stiftung Representative Office in Berlin, Germany. The conference is a joint effort of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, the Stiftung Mercator, the Robert Bosch Stiftung and the Global Perspectives Initiative.

Bernard Kouchner Joins the Aurora Prize…

Médecins Sans Frontières co-founder and former…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is pleased to announce that Bernard Kouchner, the co-founder of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), is joining the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity Selection Committee. The committee, which selects the annual Aurora Prize finalists and laureate, is comprised of humanitarians, human right activists and former heads of state, and is chaired by Academy-award winning actor and philanthropist George Clooney.

750 Nominations Submitted for the 2018…

Unique candidates for the Prize increased by 100%

In its third year, the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity has received 750 submissions for 509 unique candidates.

Lord Darzi Joins Aurora Prize Selection…

World famous surgeon and health policy maker…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative is pleased to confirm the appointment of Lord Ara Darzi to the Aurora Prize Selection Committee. The Selection Committee is comprised of a select group of humanitarians, human right activists and former heads of state, and is chaired by Academy-award winning actor and director, and a humanitarian in his own right, George Clooney.

Dates Announced for the Third Annual Aurora…

Armenia to Host Aurora Humanitarian Initiative’s…

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative today announced that the 2018 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity ceremony, Aurora Dialogues and weekend of inspirational events, will take place June 8-10, 2018 in Armenia. Pre-eminent humanitarians, academics, philanthropists, human rights defenders, government officials, journalists and business leaders from around the world will gather for the purpose of galvanizing action to address today’s most pressing humanitarian challenges and to celebrate the best of humanity. The weekend will culminate with the presentation of the third annual $1.1 million Aurora Prize, a global humanitarian award given to an individual for the exceptional impact their actions have had on preserving human life and advancing humanitarian causes. The laureate is invited to share $1million with organizations which inspire their work.