WCK Receives Zayed Award for Human Fraternity
World Central Kitchen has been named as one of the recipients of the 2025 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. The award highlights WCK’s tireless efforts to nourish communities impacted by disaster worldwide.
The annual honor, named after the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates, recognizes individuals and organizations that promote peace, coexistence, and humanitarian efforts worldwide. The award highlights the importance of collective action in addressing global challenges and fostering a more inclusive, compassionate world.
“This award is an expression of the values Sheikh Zayed taught this nation and the world—an unwavering commitment to serving communities in crisis with compassion,” said WCK Founder José Andrés. “I am proud to honor his humanitarianism, morality, and dedication to working with people from all backgrounds regardless of religion, gender, or background.”
Since 2010, WCK has served more than 450 million meals worldwide in response to natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Our teams are currently on the ground in California, Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, Mayotte, and North Carolina supporting families affected by conflict and natural disaster.
“WCK understands food is more than just sustenance,” said WCK CEO Erin Gore. “It’s a bridge between cultures, a tool for building resilience, and a source of dignity in the face of disaster.
Established in 2019, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity celebrates contributions to human fraternity, dialogue, and mutual respect. Presented by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi, it honors leaders, activists, and organizations working to unite cultures and religions. Past recipients have advanced global solidarity and collaboration.
