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Mariela Shaker is a refugee from Aleppo, one of more than 4.8 million Syrians who have fled the brutal war that has engulfed the country for six years. Her home is largely in ruins, and she describes the city as a slaughterhouse, but her entire family is still there, struggling to survive. The 26 year old’s incredible musical talent earned her a full scholarship to study in the United States—and a reprieve from the violence.

The John C. Whitehead Humanitarian Award was created in recognition of the half-century of transformational leadership and support that John dedicated to the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ (̽»¨¾«Ñ¡).

Artists, athletes and thought leaders from around the globe support the ̽»¨¾«Ñ¡ and its mission. We are honored to partner with a distinguished group of ambassadors committed to uplifting and championing our work of helping refugees and other people facing crises to survive, recover and take control of their lives.