ADFA's Nuri Kino Awarded 2025 Kavian Prize for Spirituality & Solidarity

“You are a voice for those who have lost their own” — Nuri Kino awarded the Kavian Prize in the Swedish Parliament

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Stockholm, June 10, 2025

"You are the one who goes where no one else will, the one who stays when others turn away, the one who bears the cross without complaint."

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With these words, Kavian Ferdowsi described why Nuri Kino was chosen as this year’s recipient of the Kavian Prize for Spirituality & Solidarity.

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In a ceremony filled with emotion and powerful messages in the Swedish Parliament, the internationally acclaimed journalist and human rights activist yesterday received the award from Minister of Social Affairs Jakob Forssmed.

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The reasoning was clear: for unwavering faith, courage, and selflessness in the fight for the most vulnerable.

From the Nineveh Plains to Örebro

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Through his organization ADFA (A Demand For Action), Nuri Kino and his fellow volunteers have carried out humanitarian work where others have hesitated — from the Nineveh Plains, Qamishli, Lviv, Yerevan, and Beirut to Örebro, Sweden, where they supported victims of the tragic school shooting.

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"Solidarity is not just a word — it is action. It is courage. It is listening, acting, and refusing to look away when things are uncomfortable or dangerous," Kino said in his acceptance speech, quoting the words of the prize’s founder.

“Humanitarian work is the best therapy”

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In one of the ceremony’s most personal moments, Kino challenged common perceptions of humanitarian work: "It is far too often described as burdensome. I would say the opposite — helping others is the best form of therapy."

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Member of Parliament Yusuf Aydin, who hosted the ceremony, stressed the importance of recognizing “those who not only see injustice — but act upon it.” Minister of Social Affairs Forssmed, i an very touching speech, spoke about the significance of such dedicated individuals in building a stronger society.

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An answered prayer

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"You are not just a prize recipient — you are a living answer to a prayer," said a visibly moved Kavian Ferdowsi when presenting the handwritten diploma, signed by Minister Forssmed, Yusuf Aydin, Kavian Ferdowsi, and Christoffer Samuelsson.

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Kavian Ferdowsi, who founded the prize and works daily with the homeless and other vulnerable individuals, established the Kavian Prize to honor “those who build bridges where others raise walls.”

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The ceremony concluded with Nuri Kino dedicating the prize: "To all who fight in silence — those who create community, save lives, and spread hope. You are my heroes."

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About the Kavian Prize

The Kavian Prize for Spirituality & Solidarity was established to honor courage, compassion, and faith in action. The prize is awarded to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to vulnerable groups.

For more photos, full speeches, and additional information, visit: kavianpriset.se.​