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Impact Award
The Impact Award is an annual event organized to showcase the extraordinary accomplishments and impacts of nominees who have committed themselves to serve their community here in the United States and their home continent of Africa. In particular, the ceremony recognizes the African diaspora’s positive contribution to their community. Every year, one personality from the areas of sport, arts, and job creation is selected, and their work is honored at the Impact award.
2025
In recognition of his extraordinary role in bringing Ethiopian music to global prominence, his lasting influence on the music industry, and his inspirational legacy across generations worldwide.
Meseret Defar
In recognition of her extraordinary achievements as an Olympic medalist and World Champion, her profound impact on international athletics, and her inspiring role for aspiring athletes worldwide.
Mesfin Tasew
In recognition of his visionary leadership and transformative impact on the African airline industry, and his inspiring example for current and future business leaders across Africa and globally.
Seifu Fantahun
In recognition of his influential role in media, exceptional philanthropic contributions benefiting Mekedonia Humanitarian Association, and steadfast commitment to building an informed and engaged citizenry.
2024
Gudaf Tsegay
In recognition of her exceptional accomplishments in distance running, her significant impact on the athletic community, and, notably, her role as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young athletes across Africa.
Tigst Assefa
In acknowledgment of her historic achievement as the first woman to complete a marathon in under two hours and 12 minutes, and, notably, her inspiring presence as a symbol of excellence for the next generation of African runners.
Aster Aweke
In celebration of her pioneering contribution to bringing Ethiopian music to the global stage, her lasting influence on the African music scene, and her role in empowering young artists across the continent.
Meaza Biru
In commendation of her outstanding contributions to Ethiopian media, especially in radio broadcasting, and her powerful voice as a source of encouragement and example for youth in Ethiopia and beyond.
Rebecca Haile
In appreciation of her exceptional service to community development and her impactful work in advancing education in Ethiopia, inspiring future leaders through her vision and dedication.
2023
Dibaba's Family
The Dibaba Sisters in recognition of their extraordinary athletic prowess, exemplified by numerous Olympic Gold medals, along with your unwavering commitment to elevating the running sport and serving as a global inspiration to aspiring young athletes.
Mr. Girma Wake
Mr. Girma Wake in tribute to his exceptional achievements and transformative influence in the African airline sector, and, notably, his enduring role as an inspirational figure for young Africans globally.
Sileshi Sihine
In acknowledgment of his unmatched athletic brilliance, marked by numerous Olympic distinctions, coupled with his relentless dedication to the advancement of sports and mentorship, serving as a guiding light to emerging talents worldwide.
Mr. Mulatu
Mr. Mulatu Astatke in acknowledgment of his trailblazing contributions to "Ethio-jazz," which have left an indelible imprint on both Ethiopian and global music landscapes.
2022
Kenenisa Bekele
Kenenisa Bekele in recognition of the global impact of his athletic accomplishments, as multiple Olympic Gold medalist, his continued involvement in sport and inspiration to young girls and boys around the world..
Eregnaye Drama
Members of “Eregnaye” TV Drama Series in recognition of their extraordinary accomplishments in producing a groundbreaking TV Drama Series and impact in bridging the diaspora to their country of origin.
Henok Tesfaye
Henok Tesfaye in recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments in business, his impact as a role model inspiring Ethiopians in diaspora, and, most importantly, his service to the Ethiopian community.
N'negest Likke
Nnegest Likké in recognition of the global impact of using films to promote culture and social issues. Her passion for telling thought-provoking stories that are socially and culturally impactful is inspiring.
2021
Tirunesh Dibaba
Athlete Tirunesh Dibaba (the six times and youngest Olympic medalist), in recognition of the global impact of her athletic accomplishments, as multiple Olympic Gold medalist, her continued involvement in sport and inspiration to young girls and boys around the world.
Akon
Singer, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur Akon (Aliaune Damala Badara Akon Thiam), in recognition of the global impact of using music to promote peace, culture and development, and the commendable philanthropic work that serves as a positive role model for the global African youth.
Bereket Woldu
In recognition of his contribution to Ethiopians in United States of America through community services, job creation and being an inspiration to families in the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) area.
2019
Derartu Tulu
Commander Derartu Tulu, in recognition of the global impact of her athletic accomplishments, as the first Black African Olympic Gold medalist, and her continued involvement in sport administration in Ethiopia.
Teddy Afro
Singer and song writer Teddy Afro (Tewodros Kassahun), in recognition of the global impact of introducing Ethiopian music, culture and history on the global stage, the commendable philanthropic work that serves as a positive role model for the youth.
Mark Gelfand
Mark Gelfand, founder of StemPower, in recognition of his effort in implementing many successful STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in Ethiopia and nearby countries, bridging gender gap, and fostering peace and development within and among nations.