The Noble Peace Prize is one of the World’s most honorable awards. Started in 1968 by Founder Alfred Noble’s last will and testament. This award is recognized in several different fields from physics, medicine, chemistry, physiology, literature, and peace. As the first international award given yearly it includes a medal, personal diploma, and a prize amount (usually money). The winner of this astounding award is announced just minutes after the final decision has been made by the Committee. For the first time ever a female by the name of Wangari Maathai was the first African Female to be given this award.
As the leader of the Green Belt movement, Maathai has worked to make a statement to empower women and make a difference in the world. Her latest project involved planting 30 million trees in an effort to stop deforestation. The Green Belt Movement has been alive for almost 30 years, it provides a place not only for reforestation but to allow women to be creative and effective leaders, it allows them to make their own decisions and make a change in the environment around them. For deforestation is a large cause in the damage of the Ozone Layer. This program was founded by Maathai and the National Council of Women of Kenya (NCWK). Treating everyone as equals in such a program not only empowers them but creates a positive self image of women. Not only by making a difference in our World but by showing others that they can make that difference. This program is offered around the world from schools to large corporations.
As not only the first female African to receive this award, Maathai, 64, is also the first person to receive the award based on her help has an environmentalist. By doing this the committee hopes to enlarge their view on our ever changing world. “Peace on Earth depends on our ability to secure our nations living environments” (Maathai’s citation).
Wishing herself heard not for her opinions but for the action she is taking, Maathai wants women to become more involved in the world. Recognition for her project in such an award was unexpected, it was welcomed. The award comes with $1.3 million US, which there is almost no doubt it will be used to further her projects. The Nobel committee’s citation included the following “We believe that Maathai is a strong voice speaking for the best forces in Africa to promote peace and good living conditions”.
The award is to be presented December 10, as the anniversary death of the late Albert Noble. Maathai fights for the rights of the environment, social outlook, cultural evolvement, and women’s empowerment is one to look at strongly. As a large force she is not one to ignore for if you do she will just try harder. This is a woman not only to admire but to fear. Her development of such a program is encouraging to young and older women alike and serves to better itself and those involved with the program. With such a distinguished award behind her I can only expect greater things from her. She is making her mark in the world.
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