The Story Behind the Human Act Award

Behind every significant change is a bold voice. Let’s discover the award that presents them.

It all began with a global call from the United Nations in 2020, urging the world to embrace a “Decade of Action” to meet the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

At the Human Act Foundation, we knew this was not just a message, it was a continuous path. A path to do more, act faster, and uplift those leading the way. And so, the Human Act Award was born.

Each year since, this award has become our way of honoring the bold dreamers and doers, individuals and organizations whose courage, vision, and creativity are pushing the world closer to the goals we all share.

The award is presented each year on International Mother Earth Day, April 22nd. It includes a bronze sculpture crafted by Danish artist Asmund Havsteen-Mikkelsen.

Meet our changemakers

During the last 5 years, the Human Act Award has recognized a diverse group of people who are trying to get as close as possible to the SDG goals:

  • 2020: Greta Thunberg, for mobilizing global action against climate change.​
  • 2022: Marlene Engelhorn, for her advocacy of wealth taxes in German-speaking Europe.​
  • 2024: Tim Whyte, Secretary-General at ActionAid Denmark, for his dedication to global solidarity and justice, including legal action against the Danish state’s weapons exports to Israel.

Why were these individuals selected?

The 17 SDGs aim to tackle big global problems like climate change, inequality, and the need for peace and justice. These challenges are all connected, and solving them takes teamwork and shared effort. As you could see in the previous part, these people represent what the SDGs are all about and try to make an impact.

The Human Act Foundation believes that achieving the SDGs needs bold action and inclusive collaboration. Through the Human Act Award, we seek to inspire and support those who are leading the way toward a more equitable and sustainable world.​

Informed People, Powerful Movements

Real change starts when the public starts paying attention. When people truly understand problems, they are more likely to speak up, whether it is fighting climate change, tackling inequality, or advocating for justice.

Remember the “Ni Una Menos” feminist movement that started in Argentina? Back in 2015, the heartbreaking murder of 14-year-old Chiara Páez led to massive protests across the country, with people demanding to put an end to gender-based violence.

One of the most important reasons this movement was heard by everyone was the use of the hashtag #NiUnaMenos on social media. The shock this movement gave to the world caused it to spread to other countries such as Peru, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Once awareness flows, it cannot be stopped. That is why this award and its winners focus on storytelling, activism, and public engagement.

The Human Act Award is not just about honoring achievements, it is about presenting voices that awaken global awareness. From Greta Thunberg’s climate strikes to Marlene Engelhorn’s push for fair taxation, each recipient uses their platform to inspire action. 

In a world full of noise, raising awareness is a necessary act. Through this award, we want to keep this mission alive and move towards a meaningful and lasting impact.

Stay connected and inspired

Wish to join the movement? Subscribe to our newsletter by entering your email, and be the first to hear about the 2025 award recipient, upcoming events, and stories of our global impact.

Don’t forget to follow us on social media, join our community, and be part of the movement for a more just and sustainable world!

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Our partners & collaborators

The Momentum Institute challenges the social and economic status quo by contextualising and disseminating scientific work. Developing proposals for a more sustainable and inclusive society since 2019.

Taxmenow focuses on initiating changes in the tax system. To do this, members use their privileged access to the media to highlight the damaging effects of wealth inequality.

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Millionaires for Humanity is a collective network of HNWI’s, using their voices to promote wealth taxes across the globe. Advocating for a 1% wealth tax on multimillionaires to achieve the SDG’s.

Patriotic Millionaires seek to combat the destabilizing level of economic and political inequality in America. Patriotic Millionaires members include investors and business owners from across the country.

Religions for Peace has been a movement changing the world and challenging the status quo through the mutual conviction that religions are more powerful, inspiring, and impactful together.

ActionAid Denmark is a movement that fights for a more just and sustainable world. Supporting youths in developing their voice and applying pressure on those in power.

Oxfam is a global movement of people who are fighting inequality to end poverty and injustice. Working across regions in about 70 countries, with thousands of partners, supporting communities to build better lives.

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfil their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.