'Equality Is Not a Dream but an Imperative' - Aurora Honoured Graça Machel's Lifelong Advocacy

17 December 2025
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Graça Machel Trust (Johannesburg)
press release By The Graça Machel Trust

Mrs Graça Machel was recognised by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative at its 10th Anniversary Prize Ceremony for her lifelong contribution to advancing human dignity.

The ceremony took place on historic Ellis Island in the United States, where Mrs Machel was honoured alongside fellow global philanthropists and humanitarians who embody Aurora's value of Gratitude in Action Henrietta Holsman Fore, former Administrator of USAID; Michael Milken, Chairman of the Milken Institute; and David Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Carlyle Group.

In her remarks, Mrs Machel dedicated the recognition to the many people who quietly shape humanity's future every day: "I receive this recognition not for myself, but for all who continue to rise, teachers, mothers, young people, and community builders who believe that equality is not a dream but an imperative."

She also issued a powerful call for peace, urging the global community to stand with children and communities in Sudan, Gaza, the DRC and Ukraine, reminding us that peace begins when we refuse to look away.

Watch acceptance speech below:

Read the original article on Graça Machel Trust.

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