For the next prize awards in 2006/2007 of the Women's World Summit Foundation nomination materials should arrive no later than 1 March 2006.

Awarded since 1994 by WWSF Women's World Summit Foundation – an international, non-profit NGO serving the implementation of women's and children's rights, the Prize ($500 each) honors women and women's groups around the world exhibiting exceptional creativity, courage and commitment for the improvement of the quality of life in rural communities (303 prizes awarded so far). The Prize aims to draw international attention to laureates' contributions to sustainable development, household food security and peace, thus generating recognition and support for their projects. While rural women are vital in providing examples of sound practice in their communities, they still do not have full access to tools needed for development, such as education, credit, land rights and participation in decision making. By highlighting and awarding creative development models, innovations and experiences enhancing the quality of rural life, WWSF participates in addressing the eradication of rural poverty, gender mainstreaming and women's empowerment.

Eligibility

• Nominees should be women and women's groups currently active in rural life whose efforts have not yet been acknowledged by other awards. They may not nominate themselves.
• The nominating organisation or individual must have direct experience of the nominee's work. The nominator may not nominate a family member, be a member of the nominated organisation, nor can an organisation nominate its senior officer (i.e. founder, president etc.). No more than 3 nominees may be presented by the same person/organization in the same year. The nominator commits to organise an award ceremony if the candidate is selected for the Prize and invite the media.

Nominations should be sent through the post and be addressed to: 

WWSF-Women's World Summit Foundation, P.O.Box 2001, 1211 Geneva, Swtzerland

For more information: http://www.woman.ch/women/1-guidelines.asp