Shawana Shah, a 23-year-old woman from Peshawar, received the Muhammad Ali Humaniatarian Award at the annual event in Louisville Kentucky, the legendary boxer’s hometown.
She is the youngest and the only Asian to win the prestigious award this year.
Shah established the Da HawwaLur, a non-government organisation, and is working to end gender-based violence in Pakistan and to provide a platform to the women to fight for their rights.
“This award is a recognition of all the women for whom I work. I have an unshakeable belief that women can be the greatest leaders, peace builders and can bring positive change in their respective communities,” she said.
Shah said she has been blessed with a supportive family particularly her father, who always supports her.
The young activist also heads the Working Women Union in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which provides 300 women, home-based and domestic workers a platform to fight for their rights.
The fundraising gala honored people from around the world who are making significant contributions to their communities. In addition to awards given to seasoned humanitarians, six young people, age 30 years and younger, were honored with an award for each of six core principles of Muhammad Ali, an globally respected icon and one of the greatest sports heroes of all time, who passed away on June 3.
The six core principles are Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect, and Spirituality. Shah won the Conviction award.
The Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards were created in 2013 as a way to publicly recognize and celebrate the greatness of people from around the world. The awards also represent the legacy the boxer and social icon has left behind.
