Applications Invited for EURORDIS Black Pearl Awards 2022.

About the Organization:

EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe is a unique, non-profit alliance of 962 rare disease patient organisations from 73 countries that work together to improve the lives of the 30 million people living with a rare disease in Europe. By connecting patients, families and patient groups, as well as by bringing together all stakeholders and mobilising the rare disease community, EURORDIS strengthens the patient voice and shapes research, policies and patient services.

EURORDIS Black Pearl Awards 2022:

The eleventh edition of the EURORDIS Black Pearl Awards will take place on Tuesday, 8 February 2022 at the Hotel Le Plaza in Brussels and online, gathered participants from all stakeholder groups in the rare disease community. The February event is an annual awards ceremony launching the month of Rare Disease Day. Since 2012, EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe has organised this event to recognise the major achievements and outstanding commitment of patient advocates, patient organisations, policymakers, scientists, companies, and media who strive to make a difference for the rare disease community.

Award Categories:

Lifetime Achievement Award: For an individual who has manifested a lifelong dedication to addressing the needs of people living with a rare disease. Their commitment has had a positive impact on the rare disease community at large, wielding influence on a European or international scale.

Young Patient Advocate Award: For a young, outstanding individual (of age 30 or under) who actively contributes to raising awareness of key issues for people living with a rare disease at a local, national, or international level. The award recognises dedication and commitment to positively impacting the community by educating a wider audience consisting of decision makers, the public, and/or the media.

European Rare Disease Leadership Award: For an individual who has shown remarkable leadership in the field of rare diseases at a European level. Awardees advocate for rare diseases and beneficially impact the community by educating decision makers, the public, and the media and/or by affecting policy and legislation to achieve positive change through effective advocacy at the local, national and/or international levels.

Policy Maker Award: For a policy maker whose dedication and commitment has made a significant difference to the rare disease community. The award recognises an outstanding individual who has demonstrated excellence in championing the rare disease cause at a local, national, and international level. 

Scientific Award: For a distinguished researcher whose career represents a rare combination of scientific excellence and support for the patient community.

EURORDIS Volunteer Awards: Up to two EURORDIS Volunteer Awards will be presented in 2022 to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to EURORDIS and the rare disease community on a voluntary basis.

EURORDIS Members Award: For a EURORDIS member patient organisation demonstrating innovative methods in patient support or advocacy.

Media Award: For an individual or group creating a media piece to raise awareness of rare diseases and bring the needs of people living with a rare disease to a wider audience. The award promotes excellence in journalism, photography, cinema, series, art, literature, and mass media.

Social Media Award: Established in 2022, the Award is presented to an individual or organisation who have created innovative and meaningful social media content, advocating for people with rare diseases and bringing the reality of their daily lives into the public arena.

Company Award for Innovation: For a pioneering company using innovative methods to develop treatments for rare diseases.

Company Award for Patient Engagement: For a company that demonstrates long-term commitment in its collaboration with rare disease patients, consulting with them in the early stages of development and clinical trial design.

Company Award for Health Technology: For any company working in the field of technology developing medical devices, IT platforms, health apps, or diagnostic tools aiming to improve the lives of people living with a rare disease.

Deadline: 10^th September, 2021

For more information, please check the Link