Global health trailblazers honored at WHO meeting
By Business Insider Reporter
In a moving ceremony filled with pride, purpose and poignant reminders of the collective mission to advance public health, the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly in Geneva celebrated six outstanding individuals and institutions from around the world for their transformative contributions to public health.
The awards were presented on May 23, by the Assembly’s President, Teodoro Herbosa, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and representatives of the awarding foundations.
Drawn from four WHO regions – Africa, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, and Western Pacific – the 2025 laureates exemplify how innovation, compassion and dedication can reshape the health landscape for the most vulnerable populations.
“These champions have changed lives, shaped policy, and shown the world what leadership in public health truly looks like,” said Dr. Tedros during the ceremony.
A global tapestry of impact
From Denmark to Tunisia, and China to Kuwait, the winners reflected the diverse but united front of global health champions.
Mental health pioneer
Dr Merete Nordentoft, Denmark, won the Sasakawa Health Prize.
Dr. Nordentoft has spent over two decades bridging critical gaps in mental health care. Her creation of the OPUS program in 1998 has revolutionized care for young people experiencing first-episode psychosis.
The program’s success has not only improved recovery outcomes but has been replicated in numerous countries.
“With the right support, early enough, recovery is not only possible – it is likely,” said Dr. Nordentoft, emphasising the power of early intervention.
Her work also informed Denmark’s national suicide prevention strategy, including collaborative clinics and helpline integration.
Health Equity
Dr Jožica Maučec Zakotnik, Slovenia won the United Arab Emirates Health Foundation Prize.
Dr Zakotnik’s tireless efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and ensure preventive health care for all have reshaped Slovenia’s health ecosystem.
She co-developed accessible health promotion centers that now serve even the most vulnerable populations, integrating mental health care with community services.
“Together we can make a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals – at home and beyond,” she remarked.
Healthy Ageing
Prof. Huali Wang and Kuwait’s Geriatric Directorate
Won the Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Prize
From China, Professor Huali Wang has led a revolution in dementia care and healthy ageing. With over 100,000 elderly individuals screened across 27 regions and dementia caregiver support scaled nationwide, her community-based care models are now a global benchmark.
“This award is a call to action for future endeavours – together, we can make a difference in the lives of many,” she said.
Kuwait’s Geriatric Healthcare Directorate shared the honor for its 2024–2030 national strategy on elderly care, innovative outreach like mobile vaccinations, and widespread caregiver training.
“This recognition renews our responsibility to continue preserving dignity and honouring lifelong contributions of our elderly,” noted Dr. Fatemah Bendhafari, representing the Directorate.
Public Health
Prof. Helen Rees, South Africa won the Dr LEE Jong-wook Memorial Prize.
A revered figure in reproductive health and HIV prevention, Professor Helen Rees has been at the forefront of health innovation for three decades.
As founder of the Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), she has expanded care across South Africa and impacted over 650,000 lives.
“Public health and human rights are intertwined… let us continue the struggle for health for all,” Prof. Rees urged.
Voice for the Voiceless
Dr Majed Zemni, Tunisia won the Nelson Mandela Award for Health Promotion.
Dr. Majed Zemni’s multi-sectoral approach to health promotion has helped humanize and modernize health services in Tunisia.
His leadership at the National Office of Family and Population and his advocacy for the rights of marginalized groups – including people living with HIV and detainees – have reshaped policy and practice.
“Health is a common denominator for all humanity… We must all strive for a healthier future,” Dr Zemni told the assembly.
Each award presented at the Assembly serves not only as a recognition but also a call for continued commitment to equity, inclusion, and innovation in public health.
Nominations for the 2026 prizes are now open, with WHO encouraging submissions from national health administrations and previous laureates.
“These stories show us what’s possible when expertise meets compassion,” said President Herbosa. “Let their work inspire the next generation of global health leaders.”
Ends
