Africa: UN Awards 2025 Mandela Prize to Brenda Reynolds and Kennedy Odede

An Indigenous social worker from Canada and a social entrepreneur from Kenya have won the 2025 Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize. The United Nations announced this on Wednesday.

Secretary-General António Guterres will present the award on July 18, Nelson Mandela International Day. The prize was established in 2014. It is awarded every five years to two individuals who reflect Nelson Mandela's legacy of leadership, humility, service, and unity.

"This year's winners embody unity and possibility," said Mr. Guterres. "They remind us that we can shape stronger communities and a better world."

Brenda Reynolds
Brenda Reynolds is a Status Treaty member of the Fishing Lake Saulteaux First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada. She has spent decades advancing Indigenous rights and mental health care.

In 1988, she supported 17 teenage girls in Saskatchewan's first residential school sexual abuse case. Later, she became a special adviser to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). She helped shape survivor support and trauma responses.

Reynolds is best known for her role in Canada's Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. She also developed the Indian Residential School Resolution Health Support Program. This national initiative offers culturally grounded mental health care for survivors and their families.

In 2023, she shared her expertise on trauma with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the European Union.

Kennedy Odede
Kennedy Odede lived in Kenya's Kibera Slum for 23 years. He went from living on the street at age ten to global recognition as one of TIME magazine's 2024 Most Influential People.

His journey began with saving money to buy a soccer ball for his community. This small act led to Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), which he now leads as CEO. SHOFCO operates in 68 locations across Kenya, empowering local groups and serving over 2.4 million people each year.

Odede is also a New York Times bestselling co-author. He holds roles with USAID, the World Economic Forum, the Obama Foundation, and the Clinton Global Initiative.