Monica Yunus, a noted soprano at Metropolitan Opera of New York and elder daughter of Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, has been awarded the Doha 21st Century Leaders Award from Qatar, says a press release.
The award is granted to individuals who, whilst being leaders in their own fields, have also made a serious commitment and significant impact on their chosen cause.
The award is given to individuals, who have used their influence to raise awareness, their celebrated status to raise funds, and the respect and prominence which they have gained from successes in their chosen profession, to make positive policy changes to progress either environmental or humanitarian concerns.
Monica has been chosen in the category of Outstanding Humanitarian. From early on in her opera career, Monica has championed the theme of 'Everyone has something to offer' which in turn empowers people of all backgrounds to be in a position to make a difference.
Other recipients of the Doha 2009 21st Century Leaders Award are Sir Bob Geldof, KBE, Sir Kingsley, CBE for Outstanding Humanitarian; Josh Hartnett, Danny Boyle and Christian Colson for Outstanding Humanitarian, Serena and Venus Williams for Outstanding Humanitarian and Sir Richard Branson for Outstanding Leadership.
The Award Ceremony will take place on October 30 in Doha and will be attended by members of the Al-Thani royal family who have also invited Monica to attend the Reach Out To Asia Royal Gala Dinner on October 31.
Guests include Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned, Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and his wife Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Sohaim Al-Thani, Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani and Prime Minister of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al-Thani.