Five Local Leaders Awarded 2025 Just Brooklyn Prize for Change

The Social Justice Fund and Brooklyn Org have announced the five winners of the third annual Just Brooklyn Prize, recognizing local leaders for their significant contributions to the community. Each recipient will receive an unrestricted grant of $20,000, aimed at supporting their ongoing efforts to empower and enhance Brooklyn neighborhoods. This year’s honorees engage in vital work across various sectors, including community safety, arts and culture, education, and youth mentorship.

The awardees were honored during a public ceremony held at Barclays Center on March 15, 2025. The event featured a keynote address from actor Jamie Hector, who spoke about the importance of community engagement and activism. “We started the Just Brooklyn Prize as a collective ‘thank you’ to honor community leaders,” stated Clara Wu Tsai, founder of the Social Justice Fund and owner of the Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty. “I’m inspired by their efforts to expand access to the arts, increase mentorship opportunities, and address community safety issues. Their work makes Brooklyn a better home for us all.”

The recipients of the 2025 Just Brooklyn Prize exemplify the relentless dedication that characterizes the borough’s communities. Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Brooklyn Org, expressed her enthusiasm for the awardees, stating, “These five fantastic leaders embody the spirit of change that is the lifeblood of Brooklyn’s communities, and we are thrilled to celebrate their contributions and elevate their example.”

The prize aims to not only recognize the efforts of these individuals but also to provide them with the financial support necessary to continue their impactful work. By awarding unrestricted grants, the program allows recipients the freedom to invest in their initiatives as they see fit, ultimately fostering stronger community ties.

The Just Brooklyn Prize continues to play a crucial role in highlighting the importance of local leadership and grassroots activism. As Brooklyn faces various challenges, the contributions of these leaders serve as a reminder of the power of community-driven solutions. Their work not only addresses immediate needs but also cultivates a spirit of collaboration and resilience among residents.

Through this recognition, the Just Brooklyn Prize reinforces the belief that local leaders are vital to the fabric of the community. Their efforts inspire others to engage actively in making Brooklyn a thriving place for all its residents. As the borough moves forward, the ongoing support for these changemakers will be essential in nurturing a vibrant and interconnected community.