This famous phrase sums up all that is best about Burns, and indeed, Scotland: our tolerance, friendship and humanity. And the simple sentiment and beautiful words are the inspiration for the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award.
The award has been presented annually since 2002 and recognises the efforts of those who have put humanitarian concerns above all others. The winner receives 1759 guineas, a sum which signifies the year of the bard's birth and the coinage then in circulation, as well as a specially commissioned hand-made award.
One man: a hospital surgeon, a flying doctor, a ship’s medical officer, a battlefield surgeon, a doctor in crisis-hit countries, a contributor to documentary films and a celebrated author – and surprisingly he has not yet been recognised with a humanitarian award…until now.
Humanitarian aid surgeon Jonathan Kaplan was presented with the prestigious Robert Burns Humanitarian Award at a special award ceremony.
On receiving the award, Jonathan said: "I'm absolutely overwhelmed to have won the 2008 Robert Burns Humanitarian Award and I'm thrilled to be receiving it in the home of Scotland's national poet and one of the great humanitarian advocates, Robert Burns. …I have worked alongside people of great generosity of spirit and been inspired by many from within and beyond the practice of medicine. I accept this accolade on their behalf, in the hope that it might inspire others to apply their efforts and skills to saving lives."
Jonathan was one of three individuals short listed for the Robert Burns Humanitarian Award, which reflects the humanitarian values of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Film-star and UNICEF ambassador Ewan McGregor, and founder of the Ozanam Clubs for disabled young people James Lynch, were also short listed for their outstanding work.
The winner was announced at a special award ceremony in Ayr. The judging panel included author and UNICEF ambassador Andrew O’Hagan, TV broadcaster Muriel Gray, President of the Robert Burns World Federation John Haining and the Burns Festival Chairman, Graham Peterkin.
The Award is presented by EventScotland, the national events agency.
Click here for further information on Jonathan and previous winners of the award. www.robertburnsaward.com
