"I accept this recognition with humility"
Khalsa Aid International has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Lions International Humanitarian Award, one of the world’s highest humanitarian honours.
The prestigious award recognises outstanding contributions to humanitarian relief and disaster response worldwide.
The honour was presented during a special ceremony at the 2026 Lions International Convention in Hong Kong. The event was attended by thousands of Lions members and humanitarian leaders from across the globe.
Khalsa Aid founder and chief executive Ravi Singh accepted the award on behalf of the organisation.
He said: “I accept this recognition with humility, not as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the countless volunteers, supporters, donors and humanitarian workers who have stood alongside Khalsa Aid over the past twenty-five years.”
Founded in 1999, Khalsa Aid has delivered humanitarian assistance in more than 50 countries.
The organisation has responded to conflicts, natural disasters, refugee crises and humanitarian emergencies worldwide.
Guided by the Sikh principle of seva, or selfless service, Khalsa Aid has provided food, clean water, medical aid, shelter and long-term recovery support to millions of people.
Its work is underpinned by the ethos of recognising the whole human race as one. The organisation provides support regardless of race, religion or nationality.
During his acceptance speech, Mr Singh reflected on Khalsa Aid’s journey.
He spoke about its first humanitarian mission during the Kosovo refugee crisis and its subsequent global expansion.
“Human suffering does not recognise borders, religions or nationalities, and neither should compassion.
“Food, water, shelter and medical support are essential, but equally important is reminding people that they have not been forgotten.”
The Lions International Humanitarian Award includes a $500,000 grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation.
The funding will support Khalsa Aid’s ongoing humanitarian programmes and emergency response efforts worldwide.
Mr Singh said receiving the award from Lions Clubs International carried particular significance because of the shared values between the two organisations.
“I am particularly honoured to receive this award from Lions Clubs International because your motto, ‘We Serve’, mirrors the very spirit that has driven my life’s work.”
Khalsa Aid has become one of the world’s best-known frontline humanitarian organisations over the past 25 years.
Its volunteers have worked in some of the world’s most challenging environments, supporting communities affected by war, displacement and natural disasters.
Mr Singh concluded his speech by paying tribute to the organisation’s global network of volunteers and supporters:
“This award inspires us to continue doing what we have always sought to do: stand with those who are suffering, restore dignity where it has been lost, and help rekindle faith in humanity.”
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