By Niamh Ryan - Reading time 1 min
Make‑A‑Wish International was recognized with the Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice at the award’s 21st annual ceremony, held in Mumbai on December 21, 2025. The 2025 awards were presented under the theme “Guardians of Humanity,” honoring organizations and individuals whose work creates meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of others.
The Mother Teresa Memorial Awards for Social Justice were established in 2005 by Harmony Foundation, a Mumbai‑based nonprofit organization that promotes social justice, peace, and humanitarian values. Presented annually, the awards shine a spotlight on efforts that address complex social challenges and advance dignity, equity, and compassion at local, national, and global levels.
Over the years, the awards have recognized a diverse group of honorees, including Nobel Laureates, heads of state, senior public officials, and internationally respected organizations, reinforcing the award’s standing as a platform for global social impact.
Accepting the award on behalf of Make‑A‑Wish International at the ceremony were Paulomi Dhawan, Chairperson & Managing Trustee, and Dhruv Pandey, CEO of Make‑A‑Wish India.
This award recognises the impact of the Make-A-Wish mission in creating life‑changing wish experiences for children with critical illnesses around the world. It highlights the transformative power of a wish and the collective strength of supporters, partners, volunteers, donors, and staff who make each wish possible. Together, they help bring hope, joy, and resilience to children and families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
As Make‑A‑Wish International looks ahead, the organization remains committed to advancing its mission—granting wishes, inspiring hope, and bringing joy to children facing critical illnesses across the globe.