The Hidden Movers Award recognizes projects annually that provide "a targeted, practical, efficient, and impactful contribution to improving our education system." This year, the Deloitte Foundation introduced a new focus area: "Democracy Education and Values Orientation," selecting our project as one of the five outstanding winners from over 100 applications. The award included prize money, pro bono consultancy, and a professional film production.
Thomas Northoff, Chairman of the Deloitte Foundation, praised our initiative in his speech: "The Poetry Project is a Hidden Mover for us because it uses intercultural exchange and the power of poetry to help break down prejudices and counter anti-democratic tendencies. By fostering encounters and collaboration between diverse population groups, the project not only promotes empathy and understanding but also makes a valuable contribution to democracy education in our society. This is something we need now more than ever."
A special highlight at the ceremony was the performance by our poets Rojin Namer and Shahzamir Hataki. In addition to presentations by the other winning projects, they had their own reading slot, serving as the artistic centerpiece of the event. Their contribution once again demonstrated: poetry has a unique power to bring people together!
