On October 19, 2020, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has launched “Gratitude in Action,” a series of events planned to mark its fifth anniversary. The series began with a live event from The New York Public Library in New York City.

During the event, Lord Ara Darzi, President of the British Science Association, Co-Director of the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London and Chair of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, has read, on behalf of his fellow members of the Committee, their joint statement, which is published below.

“Over the last five years, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative has taken on a leading role in the humanitarian field, empowering a whole generation of modern-day heroes and fostering a unique global community of like-minded individuals.

Aurora was co-founded by Vartan Gregorian, Noubar Afeyan and Ruben Vardanyan. It expands the circle of giving by supporting selfless men and women who risk their lives to help others and raising international awareness of their important work. All of this was inspired by the Co-Founders’ intention to put into action the gratitude they felt towards the saviors of their forebears.

Rooted in the aspiration of moving beyond the traumatic experience of the past by transforming it into something positive, Aurora believes that everyone deserves a second chance. Since its inception, Aurora has brought together countless supporters and shed light on the work of exceptional individuals, ensuring a brighter future for all.

Committed to universal human values and transcending religious, political, or any other boundaries, the Initiative has already succeeded in changing the lives of almost 1 million vulnerable people. And by achieving that in such short time, Aurora has truly raised the bar for impact in the field.

As members of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee, we are honored to be part of these outstanding efforts. We hope that they will bring about similar endeavors across the globe, which will, in turn, honor the heroes who deserve our recognition by adopting Aurora’s uncompromising approach to the elimination of human suffering.”