Hermann Gmeiner Award

Since 1991, the Hermann Gmeiner Award has honoured individuals who as children were cared for in any SOS Children’s Villages programme and have grown into adult role models in their community.

Success stories

There are many thousands of personal success stories from the SOS Children's Villages communities all around the world.

Every two years, the Hermann Gmeiner Award provides an occasion to recognise two exceptional adults who as children received care from SOS programmes, and who have inspired us with their accomplishments and contributions to society.

The award is given to one woman and one man and is open to voting by the public.

Hermann Gmeiner Award 2018

Dr Muruga Sirigere, a physician from India, and Maria Anggelina, an activist against human trafficking from Indonesia, are the two winners of the Hermann Gmeiner Award for 2018. The award recognises their dedication to supporting their communities.

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How it works

SOS Children's Villages member associations around the world nominate candidates for the award from individuals who grew up in their communities. Out of those nominees, 100 semi-finalists are selected by a random lottery. Eight finalists (four men, four women) are then selected by the Executive Board of the Hermann Gmeiner Academy. In the final stage, the public votes online to choose the two winners of the Hermann Gmeiner Award.