The Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards
Celebrating Greatness and honoring those who carry on Muhammad Ali's work towards a more just and compassionate world.
Celebrating Greatness
Launched in 2013, the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards (MAHA) were developed to honor Ali’s lifelong humanitarianism and to celebrate a new generation of social changemakers.
Each year, the Ali Center pays tribute to a number of high-profile “seasoned humanitarians” who are named as Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awardees.
In addition, we honor six young adults, age 30 and under, who are serving as advocates, activists, and role models in ways that are transforming communities and bringing about positive change in the world. Each of these winners is recognized for embodying one of Muhammad Ali’s Six Core Principles: Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect, and Spirituality.
The annual MAHA ceremony is the Ali Center’s primary fundraiser, with proceeds going to support the Center’s mission-based programs, community events, impactful partnerships, digital content, and museum exhibitions.
The 2025 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards, presented by Humana, kicks off our 20th Anniversary celebration.
2025 Awardees
Learn more about the honorees of this year's Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards, presented by Humana, scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025.
Darren Walker
Walker, receiving the Humanitarian Award for Lifetime Achievement, is the president of the Ford Foundation, raising billions for social justice.
Nancy Lieberman
Lieberman will receive the Humanitarian of the Year Award for her charity work impacting children's lives through scholarships and mentorships.
Anquan and Dionne Boldin
The Boldins will receive the Humanitarian Impact Award for their commitment to service, social justice, and community empowerment.
Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa
Dr. Al-Issa will receive the Humanitarian Award for Civility and Compassion, guiding advocacy for interfaith dialogue and combating extremism.
Zuriel Oduwole - Confidence
Oduwole is known for her development work across the globe mediating peace between nations and providing counsel to political leaders.
Dr. Joel Bervell - Conviction
Bervell uses viral social media storytelling to expose racial disparities and uncover the hidden history of medicine.
Raby Gueye - Dedication
Gueye, the founder and Executive Director of Teach For Senegal, works to expand education by placing Senegalese leaders in classrooms.
Gibson Kawago - Giving
Kawago is a pioneering clean tech entrepreneur advancing Africa’s transition to sustainable energy and e-mobility.
Trisha Prabhu - Respect
Prabhu is the inventor of ReThink, an innovative technology that aims to proactively stop cyberbullying.
Charitie Ropati - Spirituality
Ropati has worked on building pipe infrastructure and water infrastructure for rural Alaska Native communities.
Special Performances by the Louisville Orchestra
To celebrate the Ali Center’s 20-year anniversary, this year’s Humanitarian Awards ceremony will feature special performances throughout the evening from the Louisville Orchestra, led by music director Teddy Abrams.
The Louisville Orchestra is one of the city’s most dynamic cultural assets, recognized nationally for its bold programming, statewide outreach, and strong commitment to community. The Orchestra performs a wide range of concerts each season, from masterworks and world premieres to pops and neighborhood performances. Beyond the stage, the LO drives economic activity through major events, regional tours, and partnerships across Kentucky. With innovative programs like the In Harmony statewide tour and the Creators Corps composer residency, the Orchestra positions Louisville as a hub for artistic creativity and civic engagement.Â
New! Post-Show Celebration
This year features a post-show celebration including late-night bites, special performances, and more. Tickets start at $100 per person.
Join the Muhammad Ali Center for our first ever post-show celebration following the 2025 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards!
Tickets to this event include access to the post-show reception starting at 8:30PM on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at the Muhammad Ali Center.
Guests will have access to featured entertainment including:
- Live performance from the Louisville Ballet
- Choir performance from the Youth Performing Arts School
- Boxing demonstrations from Louisville Boxing TKO
- Live music from the Unlimited Show Band
- Custom poetry from Ars Poetica
- Live painting from Asia Leach
- Watercolor Designs by Lauren
Late-night bites will be available from:
- Marigold Catering
- Georgia’s Sweet Potato Pie Company
- Tandoori Fusion
- The Black Italian
Hurry and grab your tickets now, ticket prices increase on October 16, 2025.
NOTE: Post-show celebration tickets do not have access to the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards ceremony.
Admission is 21+. Cocktail attire is required.
All sales are final and nonrefundable.
Want to Get Involved?
For information on how to sponsor or be a part of upcoming Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards, email us here.
Years of Celebrating Changemakers
This year, the Ali Center celebrates its 12th annual Humanitarian Awards.