A Nigerian student studying in the United States, Ifeanyi Noel Alumona, has won the 2022 AFS Award for Young Global Citizens becoming the First African to win the prize since its inception in 1914.
Ifeanyi, who is studying a graduate degree in Special Education at the Vanderbilt University was recognized for his campaign to end violence against women and girls through proper orientation of boys on responsible behaviour. This effort of his won him the award which came with a cash prize of $10,000.
According to Ifeanyi, his inspiration for creating 'Boys Champions' came to him in the year 2018 after his meeting with President Barack Obama in South Africa as an Obama Foundation Fellow. This connection transformed his worldview and ignited in him the zeal to make a positive impact in his community.
On 1 October 2018, he formed the 'Boys Champions' as a youth focused group committed to providing safe space for young boys and training them to become part of the solution to ending societal violence and prejudice against women and girls in Nigerian communities.
The AFS Award for Young Global Citizens recognizes the work of young people around the world for their commitment in improving the global community and contribute to a more just, peaceful, and tolerant world.
Ifeanyi, a proud indigene of Enugu State, went through a very thorough and strenuous selection process beating about 500 contestants to win the award.
The award was presented during the International Youth Day organized by the United Nations Global Communications Department, the AFS Intercultural Programs and The Youth Assembly at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Ifeanyi is a recipient of the Nigerian Goodwill Ambassador Award, Volunteer of the Year Award by Appreciate Africa Network, Beijin China and the African Youth Award.
Ifeanyi is also a delegate of the United Nations Youth Assembly, an Obama Foundation Fellow and United States Institute of Peace Fellow.
No comments:
Post a Comment