Malala Yousafzai Named World's Noblest Personality of 2024

Discover the World's Noblest Personalities of 2024

Here are the 14 global changemakers who most exemplified the virtues of nobility in 2024.

Honouring Global Acts of Nobility

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Illuminating Virtues: How the World's Noblest Changemakers of 2024 Shaped Our World

The 2024 World's Noblest Personality Awards, presented by The Nurturing Nobility Group (TNNG)—the world's first platform dedicated to nurturing nobility—honour extraordinary leaders whose contributions embody the highest virtues of nobility, including honour, wisdom, leadership, and compassion. Evaluated across 10 pillars of Nobility, these changemakers have left an enduring impact on their communities and the world.

Africa

Professor Akinwumi Adesina (Nigeria):
As President of the African Development Bank, Adesina has championed sustainable economic growth across Africa. His innovative leadership in agriculture, infrastructure, and poverty reduction has improved millions of lives. By positioning Africa as a continent of opportunity, Adesina has set a global benchmark for inclusive development.

Dr. Denis Mukwege (Democratic Republic of Congo):
Renowned for his work with survivors of sexual violence, Mukwege embodies justice, courage, and responsibility. His advocacy for human rights and tireless support for survivors earned him the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity in 2024, underscoring his global impact on social justice.

Joint Winners for Africa: Professor Akinwumi Adesina and Dr. Denis Mukwege, for their outstanding leadership in economic development and human rights advocacy, respectively.

Asia

Ms. Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan):
The youngest Nobel laureate, having received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 at the age of 17, Malala continues her unwavering fight for girls’ education and gender equality. Her resilience in the face of adversity and global efforts to empower marginalised communities have made her a beacon of hope for millions.

Ms. Tsai Ing-wen (Taiwan):
As President of Taiwan from May 2016 to May 2024, Tsai was a steadfast advocate for democracy and human rights. Her leadership in navigating complex international relations and her progressive policies strengthened Taiwan’s global standing and advanced reconciliation efforts.

Winner for Asia: Ms. Malala Yousafzai, for her enduring commitment to education and empowerment, inspiring change on a global scale.

Middle East

Queen Rania of Jordan:
An advocate for education, women’s rights, and health, Queen Rania’s dedication to social justice has made her a respected humanitarian voice in the Middle East. Her work continues to bridge divides and uplift marginalised communities.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (UAE):
As Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed has spearheaded transformative initiatives in innovation and sustainability, reshaping Dubai as a global hub for progress. Some of his notable initiatives include the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), which focuses on humanitarian, social, and developmental projects, and the Great Arab Minds initiative, which recognizes exceptional contributions to humanity.

Joint Winners for the Middle East: Queen Rania of Jordan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for their transformative leadership. Queen Rania is recognised for her lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes and social justice, while Sheikh Mohammed is celebrated for his visionary initiatives in innovation, sustainability, and global humanitarian outreach.

Europe

Ms. Greta Thunberg (Sweden):
A global climate activist, Greta’s relentless advocacy for climate justice has inspired millions worldwide. In 2024, her campaigns focused on mobilising youth and influencing global climate policies, making her a symbol of hope and change. She participated in various protests and campaigns, including being detained during a climate protest in The Hague and being acquitted of charges related to blocking an oil conference in London.

Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukraine):
Leading his nation with courage and resilience during the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, Zelenskyy has become a global symbol of unwavering leadership and loyalty. His ability to unite and inspire his people in the face of adversity, along with his effective communication and values-based principles, reflects exceptional nobility.

Winner for Europe: Ms. Greta Thunberg, for her trailblazing environmental advocacy and commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations.

North America

Ms. Rosalía Arteaga Serrano (Ecuador):
Rosalía Arteaga served as Vice President of Ecuador and, briefly in 1997, as the country's first female President. She has dedicated her life to education, sustainable development, and advocating for gender equality. Her leadership and efforts to empower underserved communities reflect her enduring commitment to justice and equity. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work in these areas.

Mr. Tim Cook (USA):
As the CEO of Apple, Cook has championed privacy, sustainability, and corporate responsibility. Under his leadership, Apple achieved carbon neutrality for its global corporate operations in 2020. By 2024, Apple had reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by over 55% since 2015 and introduced its first carbon-neutral products, including the Apple Watch Series 9 and Mac mini, setting a new benchmark for environmental stewardship.

Winner for North America: Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, for her tireless work in education, sustainability, and empowering vulnerable communities.

South America

Ms. Michelle Bachelet (Chile):
A trailblazing leader, Bachelet served as Chile's first female president (2006–2010, 2014–2018) and later as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (2018–2022). Renowned for championing human rights, gender equality, and social justice, her policies have reduced poverty and improved early childhood education. Her work continues to protect the most vulnerable.

Mr. Luis Arce (Bolivia):
Since assuming office in November 2020, Arce has prioritised economic stabilisation, Indigenous rights, and social inclusion, navigating Bolivia through a deep economic crisis and political instability while fostering recovery and unity.

Winner for South America: Michelle Bachelet, for her tireless advocacy for equality and human dignity.

Oceania

Ms. Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand):
Although she stepped down as Prime Minister in 2023, Ardern’s legacy of compassionate leadership continues to resonate. Her empathetic response to the Christchurch mosque shootings and her adept management of the pandemic earned global acclaim for uniting communities during times of crisis. Her leadership style, often referred to as the "politics of kindness," remains influential both in New Zealand and internationally.

Professor Megan Davis (Australia):
An Indigenous Australian lawyer and academic, Davis serves as Pro Vice-Chancellor Society at UNSW Sydney and holds the Balnaves Chair of Constitutional Law. A leading advocate for Indigenous rights, her pivotal role in advancing the Uluru Statement from the Heart reflects her dedication to justice, equality, and the pursuit of a First Nations Voice to Parliament, treaty-making, and truth-telling.

Winner for Oceania: Professor Megan Davis, for her transformative leadership in justice and Indigenous rights.

Overall Winner

Ms. Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan): Scoring the highest across the 10 pillars of Nobility, Malala’s advocacy for education and gender equality has reshaped global conversations, inspiring millions to create a more equitable world.

This year’s award highlights the enduring power of values-driven leadership in creating a better future. By honouring these changemakers, The Nurturing Nobility Group (TNNG) reminds us that true nobility is defined not by titles or power, but by the courage, compassion, and commitment to transform lives and leave the world a better place.

Faces of Nobility: Celebrating the 14 extraordinary changemakers from every continent who embody the virtues of honour, courage, and compassion. Together, they inspire a world driven by integrity and transformative leadership.

In a world shaped by challenges and opportunities, noble women stand as pillars of hope, transformation, and progress. The 2024 World's Noblest Personality Awards, presented by The Nurturing Nobility Group (TNNG), honour eight extraordinary women who exemplify virtues of honour, courage, compassion, and leadership. This year’s recipients reflect the transformative impact of women’s contributions in shaping societies and inspiring global progress.

Malala Yousafzai (Asia)

Malala Yousafzai’s life epitomises resilience and the belief in a better future. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, she has continued her tireless advocacy for girls' education and gender equality. In 2024, Malala expanded her initiatives to underserved regions in Asia and Africa, breaking barriers for millions of girls through education.

Her courage, forged in adversity, has transformed her into a beacon of hope. Malala’s story inspires women and girls worldwide to rise above their circumstances and dream boldly, proving that education is not a privilege but a fundamental right.

Tsai Ing-wen (Asia)

As President of Taiwan from May 2016 to May 2024, Tsai Ing-wen has been a steadfast advocate for democracy, human rights, and reconciliation. Her progressive policies strengthened Taiwan’s global standing, while her leadership in navigating complex international relations earned her global respect.

Tsai’s unwavering commitment to justice and equality reflects the profound impact of values-driven leadership. Her work inspires women to embrace the courage to lead in challenging circumstances, proving that diplomacy and determination can shape a brighter future.

Queen Rania of Jordan (Middle East)

Queen Rania of Jordan embodies grace and advocacy, tirelessly working for social justice, education reform, and women’s empowerment. In 2024, her initiatives focused on improving access to education and healthcare for women and children in underprivileged communities, further solidifying her role as a unifying figure in the Middle East.

Her ability to foster understanding and bridge divides highlights the transformative power of compassion and wisdom. Queen Rania’s legacy reminds us of the unique role women play in healing, uniting, and creating lasting change.

Greta Thunberg (Europe)

Greta Thunberg’s relentless activism for climate justice has inspired millions around the globe. In 2024, her leadership mobilised youth movements and shaped climate policies on an international scale, cementing her legacy as a transformative force for the environment.

Her determination and courage to challenge world leaders exemplify the nobility of purpose-driven leadership. Greta’s work demonstrates that one voice, when amplified by conviction, can echo across the globe, inspiring change for future generations.

Rosalía Arteaga Serrano (North America)

A former President of Ecuador, Rosalía Arteaga Serrano has devoted her life to education, sustainable development, and gender equality. Her advocacy for underserved communities and commitment to justice have transformed countless lives, making her a celebrated figure in North and South America alike.

Rosalía’s work reflects the enduring impact of compassionate and visionary leadership. Her journey inspires women to recognise their potential and use it to uplift those in need.

Professor Megan Davis (Oceania)

As an Indigenous Australian lawyer and academic, Professor Megan Davis has been a tireless advocate for Indigenous rights and constitutional recognition. Her pivotal work in advancing the Uluru Statement from the Heart in 2024 underscores her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

Professor Davis exemplifies the transformative power of leadership rooted in resilience, humility, and compassion. Her dedication to addressing systemic injustices provides a pathway for reconciliation and lasting change.

Jacinda Ardern (Oceania)

Though she stepped down as Prime Minister in 2023, Jacinda Ardern’s legacy of compassionate governance remains influential. Known for her empathetic leadership during crises such as the Christchurch mosque shootings and the COVID-19 pandemic, she continues to inspire with her focus on unity and social welfare.

Ardern’s leadership demonstrates that governance can be both empathetic and effective. Her ability to bring people together during times of crisis underscores the enduring power of compassion in leadership.

Michelle Bachelet (South America)

Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, remains a global advocate for gender equality and social justice. In 2024, her efforts focused on addressing systemic inequalities and empowering women in marginalised communities.

Bachelet’s unwavering dedication to improving lives underscores the profound impact of compassionate and determined leadership. Her work reminds us that fairness and resilience can drive meaningful societal change.

A Celebration of Women’s Strength

These women—Malala Yousafzai, Tsai Ing-wen, Queen Rania, Greta Thunberg, Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, Professor Megan Davis, Jacinda Ardern, and Michelle Bachelet—are not just leaders but changemakers. Their courage to lead, compassion to heal, and wisdom to inspire reflect the transformative power of noble character.

Their stories illuminate a universal truth: when women rise, societies flourish. When women lead with integrity and purpose, the world becomes a better place. These honourees remind us that the essence of leadership lies not in titles but in the values and actions that shape a brighter future.

As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also honour countless others who work tirelessly to make the world brighter. This is a call to action for women everywhere to embrace their strength, elevate their voices, and create lasting change driven by the virtues of nobility and hope.

The Unyielding Radiance: Commemorating the World's Noblest Women of 2024

Champions of Change: Honouring the 8 remarkable women who embody the unyielding radiance of nobility in 2024. Their courage, wisdom, and compassion illuminate paths toward a more just and equitable world.

Nurturing Nobilities: Support Our Mission to Celebrate and Inspire Changemakers

Middle Eastern Royals Lead with Nobility: Queen Rania and Sheikh Mohammed Among 2024’s Most Inspiring Changemakers

In a world clamouring for impactful leadership, only two royals earned a place on the prestigious list of 2024’s Noblest Changemakers, and both hail from the Middle East. These extraordinary individuals, Queen Rania of Jordan and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, exemplify the transformative power of leadership rooted in compassion, vision, and action. Their tireless efforts have made a profound difference not only in their respective nations but also globally.

Queen Rania of Jordan: A Tireless Advocate for Education, Health, and Women’s Rights

For decades, Queen Rania Al-Abdullah has been an unwavering champion of societal progress. In 2024, her work reached new heights, earning her international acclaim. At the forefront of her achievements is her continued advocacy for education—a cause she has passionately championed as the Chairperson of the Queen Rania Foundation for Education and Development.

Under her guidance, the Foundation launched initiatives to improve teacher training and educational equity, ensuring that children from underserved communities across Jordan receive quality education. Recognising that education is a powerful tool for change, Queen Rania has also collaborated with global organisations like UNICEF and UNESCO to advocate for policies supporting refugee education, a pressing issue in the region.

Her commitment to women’s rights remains equally inspiring. This past year, Queen Rania led campaigns encouraging economic participation and legislative reforms to protect women from domestic violence. Additionally, her health-focused initiatives targeted rural areas, where access to care remains a challenge. By championing maternal and child health programmes, she has helped save countless lives.

Queen Rania’s work is a testament to her belief that meaningful change starts with empathy and relentless determination, cementing her legacy as an icon of progress in the Middle East and beyond.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: A Visionary Leader Driving Innovation and Excellence

Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the visionary leader of Dubai, has spent the past year solidifying the emirate’s position as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic development. His transformative initiatives earned him recognition as one of 2024’s Noblest Changemakers.

Dubai’s meteoric rise as a hub for technology and innovation is no accident. Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership has driven initiatives like the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which prioritises sustainable urban development and green energy. This plan aims to make Dubai one of the world’s most liveable cities by reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed’s focus on fostering a knowledge-based economy has led to the expansion of Dubai’s Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Strategy, positioning the UAE as a leader in these cutting-edge industries. His dedication to economic diversification is evident in the continued growth of sectors like tourism, logistics, and finance, bolstering the UAE’s resilience in a rapidly changing global economy.

On the humanitarian front, Sheikh Mohammed’s Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public good, allocating AED 1.8 billion in 2023 to assist 111 million individuals across 105 countries. While data for 2024 is yet to be officially disclosed, the organisation is estimated to have supported over 90 million people in more than 100 countries. Its consistent efforts in combating hunger, providing education, and delivering healthcare continue to reflect Sheikh Mohammed's enduring belief in the importance of giving back to humanity.

Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership is a masterclass in combining bold vision with tangible results, making Dubai a beacon of excellence and opportunity.

Why Their Recognition Matters

The inclusion of Queen Rania and Sheikh Mohammed in the 2024 Noblest Changemakers list is a moment of pride not only for the Middle East but for the world. Their work exemplifies how visionary and compassionate leadership can drive meaningful change.

At a time when global challenges—ranging from inequality to climate change—threaten our collective future, these royals remind us that nobility is not just about titles; it is about action, courage, and service to humanity.

Their achievements are not only a celebration of the Middle East’s potential but also a call to leaders worldwide to prioritise the values of compassion, innovation, and responsibility. As the world continues to grapple with pressing issues, the legacies of Queen Rania and Sheikh Mohammed stand as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of noble leadership.

Let us take inspiration from their example and work towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Queen Rania, the only royals on the 2024 World's Noblest Personalities Honour's list, exemplify leadership and innovation. Sheikh Mohammed inaugurates the Dubai AI Campus, advancing UAE's technological vision, while Queen Rania honours winners of the Queen Rania Award for Excellence in Education. (Sources: Government of Dubai Media Office & Queen Rania Media Centre)

Score Card for 2024 World's Noblest Changemakers

Composite Scores: A Transparent Reflection of Excellence – Discover the detailed scoring of the 2024 World’s Noblest Personalities across the 10 Pillars of Nobility, showcasing their remarkable virtues and inspiring contributions to humanity.

The Evaluation Process: A Rigorous Path to Excellence

The Nurturing Nobility Group (TNNG) utilised a sophisticated scoring framework that combined expert analysis, algorithmic precision, and real-world impact assessments to evaluate nominees. Each candidate’s contributions were meticulously examined across the 10 pillars of Nobility—Honour, Wisdom, Leadership, Justice, Generosity, Courage, Compassion, Humility, Loyalty, and Responsibility. Scores were assigned on a scale of 1 to 10 for each pillar, ensuring a balanced, transparent, and objective evaluation process that left no room for bias or superficial appraisals.

Leadership: A Continuous Journey

These individual scores were then aggregated into an overall rating, offering a comprehensive snapshot of each nominee’s embodiment of noble virtues. Beyond recognising achievements, this process also identified areas for growth, reinforcing TNNG’s belief that leadership is an ongoing journey—a marathon that demands continuous reflection, adaptation, and development.

The Nobility Progress Tracker and App: Empowering Leaders for Long-Term Impact

At the heart of our mission to nurture and inspire noble leadership, TNNG has developed the Nobility Progress Tracker, a resource designed to help leaders grow and sustain virtues across all 10 pillars of Nobility: Honour, Wisdom, Leadership, Justice, Generosity, Courage, Compassion, Humility, Loyalty, and Responsibility. This tracker enables leaders to assess their strengths, identify areas for growth, and refine their leadership strategies with precision.

Looking to the future, we are also thrilled to announce that the Nobility Progress Tracker App is currently in development and is planned for global launch in the second or third quarter of 2025.

This app will expand on the progress tracker’s functionality, offering:

• Personalised progress tracking across the 10 pillars.

• Practical guidance and tailored resources for continuous improvement.

• A platform for peer connections and knowledge sharing.

Both the tracker and the app reflect our unwavering commitment to empowering current and aspiring leaders worldwide to lead with integrity, courage, and compassion. These tools are designed to cultivate the virtues of nobility and provide practical support for sustaining positive impact in personal and professional journeys.

To further extend the impact of these tools, the tracker will be made available exclusively to the 2024 Noblest Personalities as part of their recognition. Other interested leaders may also request access by reaching out to us directly.

As leadership is a journey, not a destination, these tools serve as a beacon for those striving for excellence, equipping them to create meaningful change for their communities and beyond. With these resources, we aim to foster a new generation of leaders who embody nobility in action.

The Winners: Measuring Impact Through Scores

The scoring table revealed how closely matched the nominees were, with the highest scores reflecting exceptional global contributions. Leaders like Malala Yousafzai (98/100) and Greta Thunberg (96/100) achieved remarkable scores, alongside Professor Megan Davis (96/100), highlighting diverse yet profound global impacts:

• Malala Yousafzai (Asia, 98): Achieved near-perfect scores across virtues, with 10/10 in honour, wisdom, leadership, justice, generosity, courage, and compassion, demonstrating exceptional impact in global education advocacy.

• Greta Thunberg (Europe, 96): Scored perfectly in courage and compassion (10/10), while maintaining exceptional scores in honour and wisdom, revolutionising climate activism globally.

• Professor Megan Davis (Oceania, 96): Excelled in responsibility and wisdom, championing indigenous rights and constitutional reform with remarkable impact.

The regional excellence continued with:

• Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Europe, 94): Perfect scores in leadership and courage (10/10), exemplifying crisis leadership.

• Rosalía Arteaga (North America, 93): Demonstrated outstanding justice and generosity (10/10), advancing educational reform.

• Jacinda Ardern (Oceania, 93): Excelled in courage and compassion, showcasing empathetic governance.

• Dr. Denis Mukwege and Akinwumi Adesina (Africa, 92): Both achieved 92/100, with Mukwege scoring perfectly in justice and courage, while Adesina excelled in honour and leadership.

• Queen Rania and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid (Middle East, 92): Both scored 92/100, demonstrating excellence in wisdom and generosity respectively.

• Michelle Bachelet (South America, 92): Showed remarkable consistency across all virtues, particularly in justice and leadership.

This analysis shows how noble leadership manifests differently across regions while maintaining consistently high standards of excellence.

Akinwumi Adesina, Denis Mukwege: Africa's Noblest Personalities of 2024

In a continent brimming with boundless potential and enduring challenges, the 2024 Africa's Noblest Personalities stand as shining examples of the transformative power of leadership and compassion. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, and Dr Denis Mukwege, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning humanitarian from the Democratic Republic of Congo, have been honoured for their extraordinary contributions. Their work exemplifies the highest virtues of nobility—honour, courage, responsibility, and compassion—serving as powerful sources of inspiration for Africa and the wider world.

Akinwumi Adesina has redefined Africa’s economic narrative through visionary leadership. Under his stewardship, the African Development Bank has spearheaded critical initiatives in agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, lifting millions out of poverty. His High 5 priorities—focused on powering, feeding, and industrialising Africa—are not just policies; they are lifelines for communities across the continent. Adesina’s efforts embody the belief that economic growth must be inclusive, sustainable, and equitable. His recognition as one of Africa’s Noblest Personalities highlights his unwavering dedication to creating opportunities that transcend borders and transform lives.

Dr Denis Mukwege, on the other hand, has devoted his life to healing the human spirit. Known globally as "The Doctor Who Mends Women," Mukwege’s work at the Panzi Hospital in the DRC goes beyond providing medical care; it includes advocating for justice and systemic change for survivors of sexual violence. His courage in confronting injustice, often at great personal risk, reflects the resilience and compassion that Africa’s leadership so deeply needs. Mukwege’s recognition honours not only his medical expertise but also his steadfast commitment to justice and human dignity.

Adesina and Mukwege represent two unique yet equally powerful pathways to impactful leadership—whether through bold economic reform or tireless humanitarian efforts. Their recognition is a profound reflection of the enduring values that can inspire hope and drive meaningful change. In celebrating their achievements, we are reminded that Africa’s brightest future lies in the hands of leaders who combine vision with action and compassion with courage. Let their journeys inspire a new generation to lead with integrity and serve with purpose.

Icons of African Nobility: Celebrating professor Akinwumi Adesina and Dr. Denis Mukwege, Africa's Noblest Personalities of 2024, for their extraordinary leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to uplifting lives across the continent.

Foundations of Virtue: The 10 Pillars of Nobility – Honour, Compassion, Leadership, and more – stand as timeless principles guiding humanity towards justice, courage, and responsibility. Together, they inspire a world built on integrity and greatness.

10 Pillars of Nobility

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