“The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility is truly inspiring. It highlights the profound impact individual dedication can have and shows how commitment to others strengthens the entire community. Our associates are driving change by developing practical solutions to social problems. Their projects create a positive impact and serve as an invitation to everyone to step up and get involved,” says Ilka Horstmeier, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for People and Real Estate, who is also patron of the Award.
Björn Sommer, Sibusiso Thusi, Karin Kollross, and Graham Darab are the recipients of the BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility 2024. The four winners are actively involved with social causes in Germany, South Africa, and Bolivia. With passion and dedication, they empower the families of children with cancer, support disadvantaged youth, provide aid to street children, and help individuals struggling with addiction by offering them new opportunities. At the award ceremony held on September 16, 2024, in Munich, the BMW Group honored associates worldwide who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the common good. Each winner receives prize money of 10,000 euros (approx. $11,000.00 USD) for their project.
The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility has been highly regarded within the company for many years, achieving an impact extending far beyond simply recognizing the individuals involved. Around 100 associates worldwide submitted entries for the BMW Group Award this year. Behind each winning project is a whole team of dedicated helpers within the organizations themselves, who also receive recognition and appreciation through the Award. Volunteers find their involvement in social causes deeply enriching, motivated by the desire to give back to the community. One of the winners described the experience of being able to help as “grounding you and making you grateful”.
Assuming social responsibility is one of the BMW Group’s core values, having encouraged social commitment among associates for many years. The SOCIAL DRIVE initiative consolidates volunteer activities at the company: Alongside the BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility, the SOCIAL DRIVE platform forms the heart of the initiative. This is where associates showcase their social causes, connect with one another, and recruit new members. The platform provides an easy way for individuals or teams to learn about and get involved in various projects.
Read more about each winner’s story and the full press release here.
Tags: social responsibility