The family is the primary environment where a child’s unique gifts and qualities of character are recognized and nurtured as a wellspring of enduring love and virtue. Strong families form the foundation for ethical citizenship and social cohesion within communities and nations. Relations within the family— between husband and wife, parents and children, and among siblings and extended family members—provide the foundation for developing the virtues that underlie all positive social relations. The Global Peace Foundation is committed to supporting strong families, empowering women and improving the home environment. The Leadership in Strengthening Families Award is presented to an individual for sustained efforts to advance the welfare of the family as the primary unit of civil society and for supporting responsible parenting, strong marriages, and a healthy and nurturing environment for children.

Dr. Nona S. Ricafort is a distinguished educator and women’s advocate who has long promoted empowerment of women in the Philippines and Southeast Asian region. She has served as President of ASEAN Confederation of Women’s Organization, Vice President of the International Council of Women, and Vice President of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women. She has also served in key leadership positions with the National Council of Women of the Philippines and Philippine Federation of Business and Professional Women. She was appointed Deputy Minister of the Philippine Commission on Women under President Ramos and is currently on the International Advisory Council of GPW. As Chairperson of the Governing Board of 56 state universities and colleges, Former Commissioner of Higher Education in the Philippines, and Asia-Pacific UNESCO Education Director, Dr. Ricafort has consistently worked to integrate spiritual principles and affirmation of the family within education policy.