The Gusi Peace Prize, often regarded as the “Asian Nobel Peace Prize,” celebrated its 37th year with a grand awards ceremony held on November 27, 2024, at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, Philippines. This year, 17 distinguished laureates from 14 countries were recognized for their exceptional contributions to peace, human rights, science, business, and the arts. The event further solidified its legacy as a global platform celebrating excellence and inspiring change.
Laureates of the 2024 Gusi Peace Prize
1. Prof. Ilham Rahimov (Azerbaijan) 2. Prof. Toshko Krastev (Bulgaria) 3. Mr. Yannick Amar (Gabon) 4. Hon. Karm Quban (Honduras) 5. Mr. Phillip King (China) 6. Hon. Vikram Viswanath (India) 7. Hon. Fukushiro Nukaga (Japan) 8. Dr. Florentino Martinez Contreras (Mexico) 9. Senator Douye Diri (Nigeria) 10. Mr. Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad (Pakistan) 11. Sheikh Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Saud (Saudi Arabia) 12. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Othaim (Saudi Arabia) 13. Mr. Peter Elijah Wong (Singapore) 14. Dr. Margarita Cabañas (Spain) 15. Mr. Alberto Coto (Spain) 16. Dr. Hampson Srivatanakul (Thailand) 17. Dr. Richard Kaszynski (United States of America) 18. Cong. Samuel S. Verzosa Jr. (Philippines) 19. Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa (Philippines)
Leadership and Ceremony
The ceremony was presided over by Ambassador Barry Gusi, the esteemed Chairman of the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation. Under his leadership, the foundation continues its mission to champion global peace, human rights, and goodwill. Chairman Gusi’s vision has made the Gusi Peace Prize one of the most prestigious platforms for recognizing changemakers worldwide.
Adding to the event’s significance, Gen. Mohammed Al-Juhani, the President of the Gusi Peace Prize, adorned the laureates with commemorative sashes, symbolizing their achievements and dedication to transformative change. His role highlighted the foundation’s emphasis on unity, peace, and respect.
Distinguished Guests
The ceremony was graced by notable guests, including Sheikh Ahmed Nasser AlObaikan, whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration among global leaders to further the foundation’s mission of fostering peace and progress.
Celebrating Visionary Leaders
Among the honorees were Sheikh Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Saud and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Othaim, two influential Saudi Arabian businessmen and philanthropists. Sheikh Khalid’s innovative real estate and infrastructure projects in Makkah have transformed urban development while preserving cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Sheikh Abdullah, the founder of Abdullah Al-Othaim Markets, was celebrated for revolutionizing Saudi Arabia’s retail sector and leading impactful philanthropic initiatives that improved countless lives.
Special Recognition of Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay
A highlight of the event was the recognition of Ms. Anna Donita S. Tapay, the National Ambassador for the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP). As a young businesswoman and philanthropist, Ms. Tapay’s unwavering dedication to uplifting underprivileged communities aligns with the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation’s mission. Her initiatives have left an indelible mark, not only in the Philippines but globally, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in achieving peace and progress.
The Gusi Peace Prize Foundation, under the leadership of Chairman Ambassador Barry Gusi, continues to inspire hope and mobilize efforts for a better world. By celebrating extraordinary individuals and fostering collaboration among nations, the foundation reaffirms its role as a beacon of peace and a catalyst for transformative change worldwide.