Sudanese doctor Jamal Eltaeb, who has kept one of the last functioning hospitals in greater Khartoum operating through Sudan’s civil war, has been awarded the 2025 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, organizers said on Thursday.
Eltaeb, head of Al Nao Hospital in Omdurman, was recognized for “extraordinary courage and dedication” in providing medical care amid bombardments, shortages of supplies, and the near-collapse of Sudan’s health system, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative said in a statement.
The annual $1 million Aurora Prize honors individuals who risk their lives to save others. Eltaeb was selected from more than 800 nominations worldwide.
“Growing up, I saw how fragile life can be and how much difference one person’s care can make,” Eltaeb said. “The Aurora Prize reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can bring hope.”
Noubar Afeyan, co-founder and chair of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, said Eltaeb’s work showed that “in a world where indifference is spreading, the humanitarian spirit endures.”
The laureate was announced at a ceremony held on Ellis Island in New York, marking the 10th anniversary of the Aurora Initiative, which was founded to support grassroots humanitarians.
Eltaeb said he planned to use the award to expand his work and assist other local organizations supporting communities in need.
Since conflict erupted in Sudan in April 2023, Al Nao Hospital has continued to treat hundreds of wounded, displaced, and critically ill patients despite power outages, staff shortages, and lack of medical supplies.
“In the face of unimaginable danger and deprivation, Dr. Eltaeb has shown what true humanitarian leadership looks like,” said Lord Ara Darzi, chair of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee.
Committee member Chelsea Clinton said Eltaeb’s work “sustains a community’s dignity and care during one of Sudan’s most devastating conflicts.”
Other 2025 Aurora Humanitarians recognized at the ceremony included Sally Becker, Dr. Zouhair Lahna, and Dr. Jill Seaman. The event also honored philanthropists Henrietta Fore, Graça Machel, Michael Milken, and David Rubenstein for their contributions to humanitarian causes.
Founded in gratitude to the saviors of Armenian Genocide survivors, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative supports individuals and organizations addressing global humanitarian crises. Since its creation, it says it has helped more than 3.5 million people worldwide.