By Brenda Odhiambo
Dr. Manu Chandaria was one of the five distinguished philanthropists who were named as the recipients of the 2022 Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy in recognition of their extraordinary contributions toward addressing the challenges facing the world. The goal of the medal is to inspire a culture of giving by honoring innovative philanthropists and by elevating the importance and relevance of philanthropic contributions to our society.

In his remarks, he noted that for a society to truly give back, more people needed to focus on giving, instead of just being takers, adding that life became more meaningful when used in service of others.

“We must make our lives count by being useful to society. Philanthropy is more than signing cheques. It is about serving your community, working and looking after them,” he said.

Among the most prestigious honors in the field, the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy has been awarded for more than two decades, since its establishment in 2001, by the family of Carnegie institutions — more than 20 organizations in the United States and Europe founded by the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. To date, more than 65 philanthropists have been honored with the medal.

Dr. Chandaria’s full address can be watched here.
Additional reporting by Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy