For 25 years, the WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award has celebrated individuals whose leadership has significantly advanced sustainability efforts worldwide, providing groundbreaking environment solutions. Often called the “environmental equivalent of the Nobel Prize,” the award has honored figures like Al Gore, Gro Harlem Brundtland, and Kofi Annan. Now, as it reaches a milestone anniversary, the 2025 finalists have been announced. Their leadership is shaping the future of sustainability.
A Legacy of Environment Solutions
“With great pride, I look back on 25 years of rewarding initiatives that have driven sustainable development forward. This year’s finalists are no exception – they represent exceptional leadership that not only navigates uncertain times but also paves the way for a shared and better future,” says Sara Larsson, Executive Director of the WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award.
The 2025 theme, Trailblazing Leadership, highlights individuals whose bold actions have led to systemic change. These five distinguished leaders and five young changemakers are making a difference in environmental conservation, climate action, and social equity.
WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award 2025 Finalists
Tzeporah Berman (Canada)
A globally recognized environmental activist, Berman founded the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative. She advocates for a global transition away from fossil fuels. Through strategic advocacy, she has influenced international climate policies and challenged the fossil fuel industry’s expansion.
Frans Timmermans (Netherlands)
As the former Vice-President of the European Commission, Timmermans was a key architect of the European Green Deal. This is one of the most ambitious sustainability strategies in history. His leadership ensured climate policies remain central to Europe’s economic and political agenda.
Christiana Figueres (Costa Rica)
A key diplomat behind the Paris Agreement, Figueres’ inclusive approach enabled unprecedented global cooperation on climate action. Her leadership has inspired major initiatives like The Climate Pledge and the Exponential Roadmap. These efforts emphasize the power of collaboration in sustainable change.
Uyunkar Domingo Peas Nampichkai (Ecuador)
An Achuar Indigenous leader, Nampichkai united 30 Indigenous nations across Ecuador and Peru to protect the Amazon rainforest. His leadership has driven groundbreaking conservation efforts, proving that Indigenous-led initiatives can create systemic change.
Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand)
As Prime Minister from 2017 to 2023, Ardern championed policies like the Zero Carbon Act and the Wellbeing Budget. Her work demonstrated that economic growth can align with environmental and social sustainability.
WIN WIN Youth Award 2025 Finalists
Ssenyange Apollo (24, Uganda)
Founder of Signals from the Grassroots, Apollo mobilizes young people across 50 countries for social change. His focus is on education, equality, and youth empowerment.
Karimot Odebode (25, Nigeria)
A poet and advocate for gender equality, Odebode founded the Black Girl’s Dream Initiative. She works against gender-based violence and pushes for legislative reforms to protect children’s rights.
Joshua Shumak (24, USA)
Vice Chief of the Wassamasaw Tribe, Shumak promotes Indigenous rights, sustainable development, and cultural preservation. He fosters collaboration between tribal and governmental organizations.
Katie Freund (29, USA)
Through her work with PSYDEH, a Mexican NGO, Freund empowers Indigenous women. She promotes gender equality and economic independence in marginalized communities.
Juan Pierre (20, Mauritius)
A climate activist and policy advocate for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Pierre fights for youth participation in global climate decision-making.
A Global Stage for Environment Solutions
The winners of the WIN WIN Award and WIN WIN Youth Award will be announced at the Gothenburg Sustainability Summit on April 9, 2025. This newly launched summit will bring together world leaders, policymakers, and changemakers. Their goal is to accelerate the transition toward a sustainable future.
Following the announcement, the laureates will visit Sweden from October 13–17. They will participate in various events and receive their awards at the annual gala at Börsen in Gothenburg.
By recognizing and supporting trailblazing leadership, the WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers. These leaders are dedicated to building a more sustainable and just world.
