Nominations for Rotary International Peace Award open

The Rotary International Peace Award, which recognises peace initiatives both in the UK and internationally, is now receiving entries from nominees until 30th April 2019.

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, is encouraging all community members to submit details of local individuals or organisations responsible for the furtherance of peace, for the chance to gain international recognition.

Rotary International will award the prize, supported by sponsors Westminster Stone.

This will be the fourth year that the International Eisteddfod will be working with Rotary International to host the prestigious award. Rotary International is one of the largest humanitarian organisations in the world and the partnership with the Eisteddfod is ideal, as the Peace Award is a logical extension to the aims and objectives of this unique event, which was established to promote peace and harmony between nations.

Shortlisted entrants will be invited to the picturesque town of Llangollen, North Wales, where the 2019 winner will receive international acknowledgment on Thursday 4th July, following an evening of international celebration for which the Llangollen Eisteddfod is renowned.

Dr  Waheed Arian will join judges this year following winning the inspirational Rotary Prize last year.

Dr. Waheed Arian and The Arian Foundation was acknowledged for its pioneering scheme, Arian Teleheal, which connects  volunteer doctors in the UK, US and other countries with their peers using their smart phones and Skype or WhatsApp, enabling real-time discussions on the best available care for patients.

Speaking following the presentation of the award, which took place on the stage of the Royal International Pavilion, Dr. Arian said: “I founded Arian Teleheal so that people in terrible conditions around the world could benefit from world-class healthcare through using everyday technology to strengthen communication links.

“Our volunteer doctors thoroughly deserve this International Peace Award, which is for all of them, and all the doctors in the countries they help.”

This year’s adjudicating panel also includes Richard Hazlehurst of Bradford Peace Centre, and Rotary Peace Project founder, Jean Best who was recognised as a peace honoree at the United Nations in 2018.

As peace initiatives take many different forms, the judging panel will consider the public benefit of the project, the profile and longevity of the organisation or individual and the impact of their work.

To enter or nominate for the Rotary International Peace Prize, please send an email to Molly Youd at myoud@talktalk.net, enclosing details of your nomination and any links to websites or any information, which may support the application. Nominations must be received by the 30th April.  Entries received after that date will not be considered.

Llangollen Eisteddfod Chairman, Dr Rhys Davies said: “Following on from the inspiring work and astounding success of the last three year’s celebrations, we’re delighted once again to recognise the individuals and organisations that work so hard to make a difference, promoting peace here in the UK and across the world.

“The initial idea of creating the Rotary International Peace Prize was born at the Llangollen Eisteddfod five years ago and with the festival’s initiative of spreading peace, friendship and goodwill across all nations more important than ever, it’s with great pride that we’re able to highlight peace advocates in an international celebration”.

For more information about the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod and the Rotary International Peace Award, click here.