2024 Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award
Award winner empowers Colombian young people to choose peace in the midst of violence

Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) has awarded the 2024 Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award to Margarita Angulo* of Colombia. Announced on Saturday, Sept. 21, the UN International Day of Peace, the award acknowledges courageous peacemakers across the world. (*The prizewinner’s real name is not used for her security.)
The award was created in 2023 in honor of Sharp, who was committed to peacebuilding. Mentored by local leaders, he worked with MCC partners to encourage armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to disarm and helped members return to civilian life during his 2012–2015 term. While working for the United Nations in 2017 to verify human rights violations in Kasai Province, Sharp, 34, and his colleague Zaida Catalán were executed by unidentified assailants.
Sharp’s commitment to peacebuilding was inspired by many people dedicated to peace who came before him and is shared by many others who dedicate their lives to building peace today. This award recognizes peacebuilders who exemplify MCC’s commitment to peace and justice in more than 40 countries where the organization carries out its relief, development and peacebuilding work.

Beauty and violence
I believe in education because it also helps a lot to look at life in a different way, to think differently. I have always thought that we are not tied down, nor are we condemned to live under the oppression of armed groups. ... We can make a difference.
Margarita Angulo
2024 Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award recipient
Opportunities challenge oppression

Walking with the light of peace
A female leader in a male-dominated culture

Following Jesus' way of peace
I am convinced that a constant drop of water can fill the glass. Here we say, ‘A grain for the hen or the chickens because from grain to grain they fill up.’ I believe that consistency allows the results to be seen, and I am very tireless in that part of continuing to work for peace.
Margarita Angulo
2024 Michael J. Sharp Global Peacemaker Award recipient