The Herbert Kaefer Prize ceremony took place in Germany; the award honors individuals and organizations that make a significant contribution to supporting refugees and promoting solidarity in society.
This year, the awards went to musician and human rights activist Sasan Azodi and to the Refugee Council of Krefeld, which has been advocating for people with immigrant backgrounds for many years.
The award is named after Herbert Kaefer, a former pastor from Aachen who was one of the city’s first refugee coordinators and dedicated many years to helping people who had been forced to leave their homes.
Support for people who are changing society
The initiative is the result of a collaboration between various organizations, including church institutions, human rights organizations, and civil society initiatives that work with migrants.
One of the project’s organizers is Tetyana Lutsyk, who represents the Diocese of Aachen and advocates for social and intercultural initiatives.
During the ceremony, participants emphasized that working with refugees and people with a migrant background remains of great importance today.
People with Big Hearts
The organizers emphasize that such awards hold special significance. They help bring attention to the work of people who often go unnoticed but help others every day—whether by helping them find housing, a job, an educational opportunity, or simply offering human support.
That is precisely why it is important to talk about such people and to honor those who have big hearts and use their resources to help others.
An award destined to become a tradition
The plan is to present the Herbert Kaefer Award every two years. The aim of this award is to promote a culture of solidarity, intercultural dialogue, and mutual support.
The organizers hope that this initiative will inspire even more people to get involved in supporting migrants and refugees and to make society more open and just. Supporting migrants strengthens society. When people have access to information, resources, and communities, they can integrate more effectively, learn the language more quickly, find work, and build social connections. This also promotes economic growth and reduces the isolation and insecurity that many newcomers face. Support through initiatives creates conditions under which people can not only survive but also lead dignified lives and integrate into the local community.
Organizer of the award: Catholic Church Bistum Aachen, Project Manager: Tetyana Lutsyk
Autorin der Zusammenstellung: Maryna Bets
