2024 Power of One Award presented to F.M. Juan Ramon de la Fuente (Mexico); Amb. Ferit Hoxha (Albania); Amb. Tarek Ladeb (Tunisia); and Amb. Olof Skoog (Sweden & EU).

• I.S. Saluja

UNITED NATIONS (TIP): In a world often fraught with conflict and division, the role of diplomacy in fostering peace and understanding cannot be overstated. Recognizing the tireless efforts of diplomats who contribute significantly to the cause of global harmony, the Diwali Foundation launched the prestigious Power of One Award. This award is dedicated to diplomats at the United Nations who have made exemplary contributions to promoting peace and building bridges among nations. Spearheaded by Ranju Batra, a visionary leader with a passion for celebrating diversity and unity, the initiative has become a beacon of hope and recognition in the international community.

The Vision Behind the Power of One Award

The Power of One Award reflects the ethos of its founder, Ranju Batra, a driving force behind the Diwali Foundation. Her commitment to fostering understanding and celebrating diversity is well known, most notably through her successful advocacy for the issuance of the Diwali Stamp five years ago. The stamp, a significant milestone in recognizing the Indian festival of lights on an international platform, symbolized the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and unity over division. Similarly, the Power of One Award embodies the essence of diplomacy—bringing people together and finding peaceful solutions to complex global issues.

The 2024 Award Ceremony is co-organized by the Permanent Missions of Chile, Georgia, Ghana, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgystan, Kiribati, Morocco, and Trinidad and Tobago to the UN, UN Alliance of Civilizations, and the Diwali Foundation USA, Inc.

The Co-Sponsors of the 2024 annual “Diwali Stamp – The Power of One Awards” Ceremony include: personally Co-Sponsored by H.E. President Taye Astike Selassie of Ethiopia,  and by the Permanent Mission to the United Nations of Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bhutan, Botswana, Cyprus, El Salvador, France, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Lebanon, Lesotho, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Panama, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Sovereign Order of Malta, Spain, Suriname, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Zambia; and Palestine; and IAEA-NY, Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean,  UNCPGA, Oman , and Sri Lanka

The 2024 Power of One Award Recipients are F.M. Juan Ramon de la Fuente (Mexico);  Amb. Ferit Hoxha (Albania);  Amb. Tarek Ladeb (Tunisia); and  Amb. Olof Skoog (Sweden & EU).

Those who spoke on the occasion, included • H.E. Harold Adlai Agyeman, Permanent Representative of Ghana to the United Nations

• H.E. Dennis Francis, PGA78 and Permanent Representative of Trinidad and Tobago to UN
• H.E. Parvathaneni Harish, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations
• H.E. Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations
• H.E. Paula Narvaez Ojeda, Permanent Representative of Chile to the United Nations
• H.E. Aida Kasymalieva, Permanent Representative of Kyrgyzstan to the United Nations
• H.E. Sophia Tesfamariam, Permanent Representative of Eritrea to the United Nations
• H.E. Teburoro Tito, Permanent Representative of Kiribati to the United Nations
• H.E. Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the United Nations
• Ms. Ranju Batra, Chair, Diwali Foundation USA, Inc
• Mr. Ravi Batra, Chair, National Advisory Council South Asian Affairs, and Moderator of the Award Ceremony

The Impact of the Power of One Award

The Power of One Award has become more than just an accolade; it is a platform that highlights the transformative power of diplomacy. By honoring those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to resolve conflicts and build bridges, the award inspires others to embrace dialogue and cooperation.

Ranju Batra’s vision and dedication have ensured that the award is not merely an annual event but a movement that champions the values of peace, unity, and understanding. Her ability to bring together global leaders and shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of diplomacy underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the efforts of those who work toward a harmonious world.

A Hopeful Future

As the world grapples with challenges ranging from geopolitical conflicts to climate change, the Power of One Award serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the actions of a single individual can ripple outward, creating waves of change.

The 2024 award ceremony not only honored the remarkable contributions of its recipients but also reaffirmed the vital role of diplomacy in shaping a better future.

The Power of One Award is a celebration of the indomitable spirit of diplomacy and a call to action for all who believe in the possibility of a peaceful, united world.