“As we mark Aurora’s 10th anniversary, we celebrate a decade of impact and reaffirm our commitment to putting the ‘human’ back into ‘humanitarian,’” said Noubar Afeyan, Co-Founder and Chair of the Board of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and Founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering. “At a time of global polycrisis, we must uplift those on the front lines whose actions create powerful ripple effects. These events will honor the extraordinary individuals who exemplify Gratitude in Action while demonstrating to the world that grassroots humanitarians are best positioned to create lasting change. It’s more than a milestone—it is a renewed call to action.”
Alice Greenwald, Board Member of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and Founder and Principal of Memory Matters LLC, emphasized the power of remembrance as a force for good: “By drawing on historical memory, we gain deeper insight into the universal human experience and a renewed sense of responsibility in the present. Aurora’s mission is a testament to the resilience, compassion, and perseverance that drive meaningful change. As Co-Chairs, it is an honor to help steward these anniversary events, which not only recognize those who selflessly stand against injustice but also amplify their impact to inspire others.”
Dr. Eric Esrailian, Board Member of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, philanthropist, film producer, and entrepreneur, joined Aurora last year as a Co-Founder of its next chapter to help steward the Initiative through an important new phase. Emphasizing Aurora’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian action, he stated: “Aurora was founded on the belief that we have a responsibility to both those who came before us and those in need today. Despite the challenges facing humanitarians and the people who need them, Aurora continues to consistently provide direct, life-changing support to its grantees. This anniversary is a testament to the power of collective action and the resilience of the human spirit.”
In 2017, Dr. Esrailian led the efforts to establish The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA. This May, Aurora and The Promise Institute will co-host the 2025 Human Rights and Humanitarian Forum at the UCLA Luskin Conference Center in Los Angeles, CA. Bringing together the dynamic energy of grassroots activists, the intellectual rigor of academia, and the intersection of legal frameworks with humanitarian relief efforts, the event will convene diverse voices to collectively envision new avenues for cooperation. The 2025 conference will build on the success of the 2024 Human Rights and Humanitarian Forum, which spotlighted critical global challenges and highlighted innovative solutions.
“Aurora remains unwavering in its dedication to empowering contemporary humanitarian heroes who risk their lives to serve others,” remarked Dame Louise Richardson, Aurora Prize Selection Committee Member and President of Carnegie Corporation of New York. “The work of individuals who make bold choices every day to combat discrimination and inequality while actively fostering peace is more vital than ever. I look forward to supporting Aurora in this mission as Co-Chair of the anniversary events, ensuring that these remarkable individuals receive the recognition they deserve and that their impact continues to inspire change.”
Founded on behalf of the survivors of the Armenian Genocide and in gratitude to their saviors, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has already improved the lives of more than 3.4 million people across 60 countries and territories, deploying funding toward 463 projects that support emergency response, food, water, education, medical care, psychosocial support and more for underserved communities. With the leadership of the esteemed Co-Chairs, the 2025 anniversary events will serve as a powerful platform to elevate and expand Aurora’s global humanitarian efforts. As the Initiative embarks on its second decade, it will build on this momentum to reach even more communities in need.
