"Hamdi embodies Aurora's core tenet of Gratitude in Action and has made significant contributions to the world through his work, advocacy and philanthropy," said Noubar Afeyan, Co-Founder of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative. "We are grateful for Hamdi's outstanding efforts and look forward to his active participation as a member of the Aurora Prize Selection Committee."  

"Hamdi Ulukaya is not only an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader, but a relentless advocate for refugees and displaced persons who has made a tremendous impact on the lives of others, and we are delighted to welcome him to the Selection Committee," said Lord Ara Darzi, Chair of Aurora Prize Selection Committee and Co-Director of the Institute of Global Health Innovation at Imperial College London. "The Aurora Prize will benefit greatly from Hamdi's expertise and perspective that will further enhance the ability for the Aurora Prize to continue to strengthen its impact on those most in need."

"I am honored to join the Aurora Prize Selection Committee to help elevate and expand the work of modern-day heroes who put themselves at risk to address the most pressing humanitarian challenges worldwide," said Ulukaya. "Aurora recognizes power of one individual on the world, and I look forward to joining this esteemed group to help uncover and showcase the courageous work of unsung humanitarian heroes around the world."

The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative will hold a special series of events on May 8–10, 2024 in Los Angeles, organized in partnership with The Promise Institute for Human Rights at UCLA.