Imagine a world where grassroots innovators and civil society leaders have the support and resources they need to transform bold ideas into powerful movements.
What are the Nelson Mandela- Graca Machel Innovation Awards?
The Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards recognise and support individuals and organisations around the world who are developing creative and impactful solutions to achieve a more just world, and for having a positive impact on citizen rights and justice movements. Named in honour of the influential leaders Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel, the award honours individuals and organisations that demonstrate innovative approaches to addressing social challenges.
It was established in 2004 by CIVICUS, an international alliance of civil society organisations. Since their inception, the awards have provided seed funding, communication opportunities, and networking support to help amplify the impact of grassroots initiatives. The awards underscore the importance of justice, freedom and collective action in effecting positive change.
Who are Nelson Mandela and Graca Machel?
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as the country's first Black president from 1994 to 1999. He was a key figure in the struggle against apartheid, a system of institutionalised racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa. Nelson Mandela inspired a nation to imagine a future beyond the oppression of Apartheid and fight for freedom collectively, despite the suffocating injustice of their daily lives.
Graça Machel is a renowned Mozambican politician, humanitarian, and advocate for women's and children's rights. She served as the Minister of Education and Culture in Mozambique after the country gained independence in 1975. She is an outspoken critic of colonialism and remains a global beacon of integrity and wisdom, championing education and children’s rights.
"Together, they represent a tenacious commitment to strive for a just world, deep-rooted values of justice and integrity and a stubborn refusal to be placated with empty promises."
Objectives
Support Innovation and Amplify Impact
The Awards support the innovation of individuals or groups of participants by granting funding, which is accompanied by a range of communication, networking and mentoring opportunities available through the CIVICUS alliance. This helps the awardees to increase their reach and effectiveness.
Celebrate Achievements and Promote Visibility
The Innovation Awards honour individuals and organisations who are using creative and committed approaches to achieving justice and human rights, often in environments where resources and support are scarce. Celebrating their achievements helps to increase their visibility and recognition on a global scale.
History and Impact
Over 20 years, the awards have celebrated 42 change-makers from over 24 countries, recognising their contributions to citizen rights and justice movements.
Timeline
The Innovation Award was inaugurated in 2004. Subsequent editions of the Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards were presented during award ceremonies that took place during International Civil Society Week 2014 (Johannesburg, South Africa), 2016 (Bogota, Colombia) and 2017 (Suva, Fiji) and through a virtual platform in 2021.
2024 Innovation Awards
By the Innovators, For the Innovators: For the first time, the Innovation Awards will be designed by the past awardees. These past winners will take an active role in crafting the journey of the Awards, from defining eligibility criteria to determining award categories and designing the support structures for new winners. This approach ensures that the process is deeply informed by the experiences and insights of those who have navigated the challenges and opportunities of innovative work firsthand.
Redefining Innovation: Innovation has forever been linked with science and technology but in a climate of restricted access to funding and means, innovation for civil society seldom involves technology. Instead, it often arises from working together, pooling resources, adapting plans, and testing new ideas. The Innovation Awards 2024 aims to redefine innovation by underpinning the value of collaboration, resourcefulness, and community-driven solutions.
New Award Cycle Highlights
2025 International Civil Society Week
