Why celebrate IMPACT, and in LUXURY? you may ask! Well because Impact Makers thus; change makers and business people who care about our communities deserve some little luxury to honor their selflessness.
The List Awards 2024 was not just an event; it was a luxurious celebration of impact makers who tirelessly dedicate their lives to uplifting communities and creating change. The theme for the night, “A Luxurious Celebration of Impact,” encapsulated the essence of honoring those who often work behind the scenes unrecognized.
For many of the award recipients, attending The List Awards was a transformative experience. One winner of the Storyteller Journalism Impact Award Theresa Takafuma shared, “I’ve never bought a dress for an event, but for The List Awards, I bought one. This is so worth it; I felt celebrated!”
Such sentiments highlight the significance of acknowledging the hard work and sacrifices made by these individuals, it is not that they dont want it, its because they usually cannot afford it, or simply never make time to celebrate themselves.
The atmosphere of the evening was filled with elegance from the stunning venue adorned with neon lights to the exquisite four-course meal served to guests. Each detail was well planned to create a memorable experience, reinforcing the idea that those who dedicate their lives to community service deserve to be honored in style.
ngai Jayaguru, the runner-up for the Entertainment Impact Award, expressed her excitement on social media, stating, “The event was one of the few glamorous ones where no one had to pay to be recognized. We were instead spoiled and refunded our transport and accommodation expenses.” Her words highlight the unique approach of The List Awards, where honoring impact is prioritized over commercial interests.
Wellington Bakaimani, winner of the Youth Impact Award, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This was such a class act. The way they carried the night with such elegance.” His appreciation showcases how The List Awards not only recognized achievements but also created a memorable experience that resonated with all attendees.
Honoring impact makers in such a luxurious setting is crucial for mental health and well-being. Many of these individuals often work in challenging conditions, dedicating their time and resources without the financial rewards that typically accompany success.
By honoring these dedicated individuals in such a grand manner, The List Awards reinforced the message that community work is a noble pursuit deserving of recognition, respect, and luxury. This celebration was not just about awards; it was about creating a culture that values and uplifts those who strive to make a difference every day.
The Convener of The List Awards and Human Rights as well as Media Entrepreneur and Founder of Identities Media, Advocate Nyaradzo ‘Nyari’ Mashayamombe echoed the need to honor those who serve our communities in a manner they should be honoured. “Community Champions and Human Rights Defenders as well as Benefactors usually do things in hardship, without support, with many suspicious of their acts.
They contend with their families for doing these Heroic Acts where family members sometimes think its not worth it putting their lives at risk. They contend with religious groups who think that the message of human rights and equality has no place in society.
They contend with the government sometimes on issues of inequalities and governance. These Heroes deserve a pat on the back, that we see you! Thats why I think they once in a while deserve luxury (The List Awards Ceremony), they never signed up for poverty when they chose to advance our communities.
They deserve money (each winner walked away with money prize) spoil themselves since all they do is usually give others. They deserve a well crafted trophy (the gorgeous designed The List Awards Trophy), because daily they curate programmes for others!
They deserve to have their work amplified (through the awards process and media post engagement), to get more support, honor and recognition.
And that is why I founded The List Awards, to honor impact makers in the manner they should be honoured”, she said Advocate Nyaradzo.