Curated by the Democracy & Culture Foundation and the Moleskine Foundation, the Creativity for Social Change Award recognizes bold and innovative individuals and groups who use the arts and culture to tackle critical social issues and inspire positive change. By shining a spotlight on their work, the award aims to foster a new generation of creative thinkers dedicated to building a more just, inclusive and equitable world. It also provides finalists and winners with financial support, networking opportunities, and the recognition needed to amplify their impact and sustain their efforts.
Open to creative changemakers worldwide—especially those working with marginalized communities—the award values innovative practices that address global challenges through sustainable, replicable solutions. Nominees are assessed based on the impact of their work, their role as catalysts for change, and their commitment to fostering dialogue and equality. Together, we’re building a community of like-minded leaders, driving social innovation, and influencing policy and public awareness.
The Award
- A monetary prize of €10,000
- The opportunity to join the global platform of the Creativity Pioneers Fund, unlocking access to additional resources, learning and gathering opportunities
- A chance to co-curate a panel at the Art for Tomorrow conference, organized annually by the Democracy & Culture Foundation and held this year in Milan
The nominations for the 2025 award are now closed. Thank you for your submissions. Stay tuned for next year!
The Jury
Heba Y. Amin
Kim Conniff Taber
Dimitris Daskalopoulos
Sandra Jackson-Dumont
Dr. Sebabatso Manoeli-Lesame
Simon Njami
Adama Sanneh
Kiluanji Kia Henda wins the inaugural Creativity for Social Change Award
After receiving more than 160 nominations from organizations around the world, the Award selection committee, composed of Heba Y. Amin, Kim Conniff Taber, Dimitris Daskalopoulos, Sandra Jackson-Dumont, Jeff Koons, Sebabatso Manoeli, Simon Njami and Adama Sanneh, unanimously decided to celebrate Kiluanji Kia Henda’s work for the first-ever award. The ceremony was held at Palazzo Reale in partnership with the Moleskine Foundation and the first edition was dedicated to the beloved curator Koyo Kouoh, who passed away earlier this May.
A multimedia artist born in Luanda, Angola, Kia Henda, is celebrated for his exploration of history, politics, war and the impact of colonialism, while also conveying hope for the future. The award consists of a monetary prize of €10,000 and a chance to co-curate a session at the next Art for Tomorrow conference. With this initiative, both Foundations seek to inspire a new generation of creative thinkers and doers.
