Seventh TRT World Citizen Awards Honor Global Changemakers

Feb 26, 2026

65 min

Feb 26, 2026 10:32

Winners of the Seventh “TRT World Citizen Awards” announced

## Celebrating Positive Change

The TRT World Citizen Awards, initiated in 2017, aim to inspire global positive change by recognizing individuals who contribute to social benefit worldwide. This year marked the seventh edition of the awards, held in Istanbul on February 13.

## Honoring Remarkable Contributions

The "World Citizen of the Year" award was posthumously given to Yahya Barzaq, a Gaza photographer who documented the Israel war and lost his life in 2025. His mother, Yousra Barzaq, accepted the award on his behalf.

Italian architect Raul Pantaleo received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" for using architecture as a tool for social recovery. In the "Communicator" category, Ibtihal Aboussaad and Vaniya Agrawal were recognized for their work on ethical AI applications.

## Recognizing Young and Innovative Leaders

Nigerian environmental activist Amara Nwuneli was honored with the "Youth" award. Rudayna Abdo received the "Educator" award for making digital education accessible to refugee and disadvantaged children.

Joohi Tahir was awarded in the "Accessibility" category for her efforts in promoting inclusivity within Muslim communities.

## A Platform for Global Awareness

The awards ceremony featured speeches emphasizing the importance of fair narratives and the role of public broadcasting in highlighting global issues. Emine Erdoğan, wife of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, highlighted the initiative's role in defending human dignity and promoting truth.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents