The Opus Prize is given annually to recognize unsung heroes of any faith tradition, anywhere in the world, solving today’s most persistent social problems. This $1 million faith-based humanitarian award and two $100,000 awards are collectively one of the world’s largest faith-based, humanitarian awards for social innovation.
2025 Opus Prize Laureate
The Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit
Mazabuka, Zambia
The Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit from Mazabuka, Zambia, led by Sister Juunza Mwangani and Sister Rosalia Sakayombo, have been chosen as the 2025 Opus Prize Laureate, presented with a $1 million award at Xavier University of Louisiana on November 13.
The Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit, who dedicate their ministry to education, health, pastoral and social work, youth, and social entrepreneurship, were founded in 1971 by Bishop James Corboy, SJ, of the Diocese of Monze, Zambia. This year’s Opus Prize Laureate has become a model enterprise in Zambia, having partnered with the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to implement a project that imparts eco-friendly agriculture and entrepreneurship skills to ensure food security among disadvantaged women.
2025 OPUS PRIZE FINALISTS
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African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI)
African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI), led by Alicia Spence and based in Wolverhampton, England
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Micah Ecumenical Ministries (Micah)
Micah Ecumenical Ministries (Micah) of Fredericksburg, Virginia, led by Meghann Cotter
MAKING AN IMPACT
and 36 finalists have been honored since the Opus Prize’s inception
Opus Prize recipients have made a global impact on 6 continents
Total amount awarded to Opus Prize recipients since 2004
INSPIRING OTHERS
"The Opus Prize is still impacting me, in my heart and mind, and how I see my vocation in the future. I've learned the value of paying attention to the intricacies of the people you're around, their character, and how they impact their community and the world.”
Jordan Glassman, Saint Louis University student
IN THE NEWS
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The 2025 Opus Prize was presented with a $1 million award at Xavier University of Louisiana on Thursday. November 13, 2025.
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In a recent interview, Sr. Francisca Ngozi Uti, named the laureate of the 2024 Opus Prize, discusses the significant impact of the award.
TRANSFORMING LIVES
PAST LAUREATES
Opus Prize recipients may not be household names, but don't be fooled by their relative anonymity. The Opus Prize laureates are beating daunting odds to bring about lasting social change in their communities and countries.
PAST FINALISTS
Each year, a select group of finalists are nominated to receive the Opus Prize. Their work champions faith-filled change to transform lives and inspire others.
PARTNERS
The Opus Prize is awarded on Catholic university campuses, providing recipients an unparalleled opportunity to inspire the next generation of faith-based social entrepreneurs.