Anjali GopalanCommunity Service (Tamil Nadu, India) 2013
ANJALI GOPALAN – a renowned Indian human rights and animal rights activist, known for her groundbreaking work in fighting the HIV-AIDS epidemic in India. She is the founder and executive director of The Naz Foundation (India) Trust, an NGO dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by those affected by HIV-AIDS, particularly women and children. The foundation has expanded its focus to include sexuality rights, advocating for the rights of the LGBT community, women, and children living with HIV-AIDS.
Her commitment to serving marginalized communities led her to provide direct services to undocumented migrant laborers, schoolchildren, and South Asian communities affected by HIV-AIDS. Her efforts have had a transformative impact on the lives of many, bringing about positive change and empowerment.
Her work has been widely recognized, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world in 2012. She has also received the prestigious Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur, the highest award from France, in 2013, becoming the first Indian Tamil woman to be honored with the Legion of Honour. Her dedication and advocacy continue to inspire change and improve the lives of those in need.