Sports for Social Change Award
The Sports for Social Change Award honors athletes who use the unifying power of sports to dismantle systemic inequities, amplify marginalized voices, and transform lives through leadership, mentorship, and community empowerment.
Sports for Social Change Award
The Sports for Social Change Award honors athletes who use the unifying power of sports to dismantle systemic inequities, amplify marginalized voices, and transform lives through leadership, mentorship, and community empowerment.

Caroline Dubois (Recipient Sports for Social Change Award, 2024)

“The woman that we are honouring today; they’re to reach for their dreams and be able to narrate their own story so that nobody else can narrate it for them”
Ndileka Mandela

About the Award

The Sports for Social Change Award celebrates visionary athletes who harness the unifying power of sports to create lasting social impact.

Through advocacy, mentorship, and direct community involvement, these changemakers use their influence to promote equality, break down systemic barriers, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Who turn their platforms into springboards for progress, embodying the spirit of Nelson Mandela’s belief in the power of collective action.

Our Mission

The award aims to amplify the voices of socially conscious athletes, providing them with resources and recognition to expand their work. Through their platforms, they inspire systemic change, foster resilience, and promote equity and hope.

Empowering Athletes

Recognizing those who use their platform to advocate for social good.

Inspiring Communities

Showcasing the impact of sports on uplifting youth and underserved populations.

Breaking Barriers

Celebrating leaders who address systemic challenges through sports.

Criteria

The Sports for Social Change Award honors athletes who demonstrate exemplary leadership and community impact through sports.

Transformative Advocacy

A proven record of leveraging sports to address societal inequities, whether through mentorship, fundraising, or policy change.

Community Impact

Significant engagement with and measurable benefits for underserved or marginalized communities.

Long-term Vision

Evidence of sustained commitment to driving positive social change through sports.

Youth Empowerment

A focus on inspiring and mentoring the next generation, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Intersectional Leadership

Initiatives addressing the interconnected issues of equity, education, gender, and community development through the power of sports.

Past Recipients

Caroline Dubois (2024)

Caroline Dubois, an Olympic medalist and professional boxer, transcends the boundaries of her sport to become a symbol of hope and empowerment. Born in a working-class community, Caroline has used her career to break gender stereotypes, inspire young women, and advocate for equity in sports.

Climate Justice Award

Honors bold, visionary leaders who ignite hope and empower communities in the fight for a just, fair, and livable planet for all.

Sports for Social Change Award

Honors athletes who use the unifying power of sports to dismantle systemic inequities, amplify marginalized voices, and transform lives through leadership, mentorship, and community empowerment.

Other Awards

Excellence in Education Award

Health and Humanity Award

Catalyst for Rural Development Award