Awarded since 1994 by the Women's World Summit Foundation (WWSF), an international, nonprofit, humanitarian NGO, serving the implementation of women’s and children’s rights and the UN development agenda - the Prize (US$ 1000 per laureate) honors women and women's groups around the world exhibiting exceptional creativity, courage and commitment for the improvement of the quality of life in rural communities.

The Prize aims to draw international attention to laureates' contributions to sustainable development, household food security and peace, thus generating recognition and support for their projects. While rural women are vital in providing examples of sound practice in their communities, they still do not have full access to tools needed for development, such as education, credit, land rights and participation in decision making.

By highlighting and awarding creative development models, innovations and experiences enhancing the quality of rural life, WWSF participates in addressing the eradication of rural poverty, gender mainstreaming and women’s empowerment.

What are the items required for Nominations?

Nominations must include the following items:

• Original signed letter of nomination indicating how the nominator knows the nominee and for how long.
• Biographical data on the nominee (full name, age, education, place of work, background) and a detailed history of the nominee's creative project (written by the nominator) including her motivation, innovative aspects, any obstacles overcome, and the impact in the community. Nominations must specify whether the nominee has received or is currently being nominated for other awards.
• At least two original and signed endorsement letters from organizations or individuals other than the nominator and, if possible, additional supporting materials such as newspaper articles or publications.
• A few labeled photographs clearly showing the nominee(s) for possible publication.

Eligibility Criteria

• Nominees should be women and women’s groups currently active in rural life whose efforts have not yet been acknowledged by other awards. They may not nominate themselves.
• The nominating organization or individual must have direct experience of the nominee's work. The nominator may not nominate a family member, be a member of the nominated organization, nor can an organization nominate its senior officer (i.e. founder, president etc.). No more than three nominees may be presented by the same person/organization in the same year. The nominator commits to organize an award ceremony if the candidate is selected for the Prize and invites the media.

Criteria

The long-term impact of the Prize depends on the integrity of the nominators and the quality of their nominations. The Prize is an award for successful accomplishments rather than a fund for future projects. The nominee's history, written by the nominator (2-3 pages) must demonstrate the creativity, courage and sometimes sacrifice in the efforts by the candidate at the grass roots level to improve life in rural communities. Descriptions should be as specific as possible. Any of the following elements should be emphasized:

• Exceptional courage and perseverance in improving rural life
• Creativity in the approach
• Preservation of and respect for the environment (if the candidate is involved with the environment)
• Continuing impact in the community
• Participation in the WWSF 17 Days of Activism Campaign 1-17 October with 17 themes is encouraged
• Underline how the work of the candidate promotes the UN Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 – Transforming their world.

For more information, visit WWSF.