Juanes to Receive ‘International Peace Honors’ Award from PeaceTech Lab

Juanes is keepin’ the peace…

The 49-year-old Colombian musician will be honored for his “dedication to youth empowerment and peace” during the 2022 International Peace Honors presented by PeaceTech Lab.

Juanes joins an elite group of honorees including actor, executive producer and activist Forest Whitaker; the creator of Humans of New YorkBrandon Stanton; and indigenous youth leader and environmentalist, Tokata Iron Eyes of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, among others.

“It is a privilege to be recognized by the International Peace Honors,” said Juanes, who 15 years ago co-founded peace-building non-profit organization Mi Sangre Foundation in his native Colombia. “I am beyond honored and thrilled to be among this group of impassioned leaders working to make the world a more inclusive, and peaceful place. I was blessed to embrace music as a creative outlet at a time of great turmoil during my youth, and now through Mi Sangre Foundation, we aim to create a space for today’s youth as they wrestle with the overlapping and ongoing crises in Colombia. A space where they can peacefully and purposefully pave their own paths out of any difficulties they encounter and become active leaders of change in the communities.”

“Once you’re at the top, to reach behind you and extend your hand to lift others up too, is the mark of a true star. Juanes has reached the pinnacle of success and has found a way to continue to make a difference in the world — not only with his music and talent, but with lasting, effective peace building methods which empower the next generation of peace builders. It’s an honor to recognize him as an International Peace Honoree,” stated Sheldon Himelfarb, president and CEO of PeaceTech Lab.

The International Peace Honors “celebrates the work of the most outstanding global leaders and change-agents of our time who make philanthropy and humanitarian service a hallmark of their lives, to advance humanity and our planet,” according to a press release.

Host and performers for the ceremony, set to take place on Sunday, February 27, will be unveiled in the upcoming weeks.

The ceremony will be broadcasted digitally via PeaceTech Lab’s social media platforms.

Ricky Martin Receives International Peace Honors Recognition from PeaceTech Lab 

Ricky Martin is celebrating a special honor…

PeaceTech Lab presented the International Peace Honors during a virtual celebration on Sunday night to unite and honor leaders and change agents working toward a more just and equitable future, including the 49-year-old Puerto Rican superstar.

Ricky Martin

Martin was saluted for his advocacy for human rights, tolerance and peace at the event, which was hosted by Natalia Jiménez.

“In addition to his artistic contributions, Ricky Martin has made notable strides in the social impact space,” said Sheldon Himelfarb, the president and CEO of PeaceTech Lab, in a press release. “He leverages his social networks to advocate for minority rights and promote civic engagement; through his foundation, he works to end human trafficking, especially of children; and in 2020, he galvanized support for frontline workers across the world. His contributions are invaluable, and it is a privilege for us to be able to recognize him during our International Peace Honors.”

Martin is well known for his activism. He’s the founder and president of the Ricky Martin Foundation, which rallies against human trafficking, protects children and vulnerable communities, and defends the human rights of millions.

But Martin wasn’t the only Latino nominee for the first-event International Peace Honors…

Ricardo Montaner was honored for his humanitarian efforts.

Other nominees included Dr. Anthony Fauci, Black Lives Matter co-founder Opal Tometi, Amazonian Chief Raoni and the “father of the internet” Vint Cerf.

Stephen CurryEva LongoriaSting and José Andrés were presenters, while former U.S. President Jimmy Carter delivered a special message.

Sting also delivered an intimate version of “Fragile,” while Alejandro Sanz performed “La Quiero a Morir,” Camilo and his wife Evaluna Montaner (whose father is one of the evening’s honorees) sang “Amen,” and Laura Pausini performed “Io Si,” the main theme of Netflix‘s The Life Ahead.