The Impact Prize 2025

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Gates Cambridge Impact Prize 2025

The Gates Cambridge Trust recently invited nominations for the Gates Cambridge Impact Prize 2025. Established to make a meaningful difference, the Gates Cambridge scholarship fosters a global community committed to positive change. As we mark our 25th anniversary, we are taking this opportunity to celebrate the impactful work of scholars.

Five award winners will receive £5,000 and be invited to participate in our 2025 anniversary events. The prize is open to all members of the Gates Cambridge community, and both individual scholars and teams, where a Gates Cambridge scholar plays a substantial role, are eligible.

Impact is defined as a demonstrable contribution to change in various fields, including the economy, society, culture, the environment, public policy, health, and quality of life. The work recognised should be innovative, transformative, and sustainable. It must also respect fundamental values such as human rights, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law.

FAQs

Am I eligible to be nominated?

Yes, if you have received a Gates Cambridge scholarship, you are eligible for nomination.

Can I make a nomination if I haven’t received a Gates Cambridge scholarship?

Yes, anyone can submit a nomination, as long as the person being nominated is a Gates Cambridge Scholar.

Do I need to meet the word count for each section of the nomination form?

No, the word count is a maximum limit. We encourage concise responses when completing the form or writing letters of recommendation.

What do you mean by “impact,” and which sectors are you seeking nominations from?

We define “impact” in the broadest terms and welcome nominations from all sectors. There is no specific field of preference, so all Scholars are encouraged to be nominated.

Can I nominate myself for this award?

Yes, self-nominations are accepted. You will require an additional letter of recommendation if you are self-nominating.

Is there a deadline for submitting nominations?

Yes, nominations must be submitted by Monday 30th September 2024 at 23:59

Can I submit multiple nominations for different individuals?

Yes, you are welcome to submit multiple nominations, but each nominee must meet the eligibility criteria and have received a Gates Cambridge scholarship.

Judging Panel

Professor Sir Leszek Borysiewicz | The 345th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, former Chair of Cancer Research UK, and the former Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council

Joe Cerrell | The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Managing Director for Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia

Professor Tebello Nyokong | Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at Rhodes University, the 2009 L’Oréal-UNESCO Award for Women in Science recipient

Dr Gillian Tett | The 45th Provost of King’s College, Cambridge, Moral Money Co-Founder and Member of the Editorial Board & Columnist at the Financial Times

Important Dates

15 August 2024 | Nominations open

30 September 2024 | Deadline for nominations

25 November 2024 | Judging panel meet

2 December 2024 | Prizewinners notified

10 January 2025 | Impact Prize 2025 prizegiving ceremony