Former Mauritius president wins global voice of change award in Zimbabwe

Former Mauritius President Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim received three international honors at the iChange Nations Global Leadership and Humanitarian Awards on July 21 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The recognition spotlighted her work in science, education, women’s empowerment and sustainable development, with HRH King Dr. Ruben M. West presenting one of the awards.

Why it matters: - Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim’s recognition highlights the intersection of leadership, science and humanitarian service. - The awards also signal continued international attention on women’s leadership and public service in Africa and beyond. - The iChange Nations movement used the ceremony to reinforce a broader message: influence should be used to expand opportunity and dignity.

What happened: - Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former president of Mauritius, received three international honors at the iChange Nations™ Global Leadership and Humanitarian Awards on July 21, 2026, in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. - HRH King Dr. Ruben M. West of the United States presented Gurib-Fakim with the iChange Nations™ Ruben M. West Global Voice of Change Award. - Ambassador Dominic Obadiah of Kenya presented Gurib-Fakim with the Civility Voice Diplomat Global Humanitarian Award. - Gurib-Fakim also received the iChange Nations™ Woman of the Decade Award.

The details: - The Global Voice of Change Award recognizes leaders who use their voices, positions and public platforms to advocate for people in need, address injustice, expand opportunity and empower overlooked communities. - King Dr. West said Gurib-Fakim has used her voice to elevate humanity, advance scientific excellence and expand opportunities for women and girls. - Gurib-Fakim is known for leadership in science, education, research, innovation and sustainable development. - She was the first woman to serve as president of Mauritius. - Her public leadership has helped shape conversations about biodiversity, education, environmental stewardship, scientific advancement and women in leadership. - The Civility Voice Diplomat Global Humanitarian Award recognized her commitment to principled leadership, humanitarian service, diplomacy and civility across cultures and nations. - The Woman of the Decade Award honors women whose sustained leadership, international influence and service have driven lasting progress for communities, institutions and future generations. - Gurib-Fakim was recognized for contributions to science, education, innovation, women’s empowerment and global development. - The ceremony drew royalty, diplomats, humanitarian leaders, educators, government officials, business executives and community advocates from across Africa and the international community. - The event honored people whose leadership is tied to service, compassion, civility and measurable social impact.

Between the lines: - The awards reflect how international recognition groups are increasingly linking leadership with civic impact rather than office alone. - Gurib-Fakim’s profile as a scientist and former head of state gives the honor added symbolic weight for women seeking influence in public life. - The ceremony also positioned iChange Nations™ as a platform for cross-border recognition and networking among leaders. - The Global Voice of Change Award was created to honor people who use communication, advocacy, education, diplomacy and institutional influence to serve others. - The award’s stated goal is to encourage leaders to defend dignity, inspire hope and confront harmful systems.

What's next: - iChange Nations™ is expected to keep using its awards and diplomatic network to highlight leaders who advance civility and humanitarian service. - The organization says it operates in more than 150 countries and continues to engage heads of state, royalty, diplomats, educators, faith leaders, business executives, community advocates and humanitarian leaders. - The Global Civility Leadership Institute will continue its work in civility-centered leadership, humanitarian diplomacy and international collaboration.

The bottom line: - Gurib-Fakim’s three honors in Victoria Falls reinforce her standing as a global figure in science, public service and women’s leadership.