Robert Burns Humanitarian Award

The closing date for RBHA nominations was 4pm on 6 October 2023.

The Robert Burns Humanitarian Award is a globally-respected honour bestowed annually on a group or individual who shows selflessness and dedication in a bid to save, enrich or improve the lives of others through the protection and promotion of human rights and work to deliver social reform.

Named in honour of Scotland's son, Robert Burns, this much sought after humanitarian award applauds the efforts of people who bring hope and inspiration, often in desperate situations, and help change lives for the better.

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Dr Renuka Ramakrishnan - 2023 Winner

The 2023 RBHA winner is Dr Renuka Ramakrishnan.  Dr Renuka Ramakrishnan is a consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist who has specialised in the treatment of Hansen's Disease (leprosy) for the past 30 years.  As well as a doctor, she acts as counsellor, mentor, motivational speaker, and educator. She also campaigns to raise awareness of breast cancer and crimes against women, children, and the transgender community.

Read more in our press release.

View information on the 2023 finalists.

About the award

As Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns is celebrated as a pioneer of his generation, with his dynamic vision inspiring the founders of socialism and liberalism. The humanitarian values he embraced in his short life are captured for eternity in his rousing world famous works which are now his legacy. Burns' work continues to inspire people from all walks of life and in all corners of the globe.

The Robert Burns Humanitarian Award is supported by South Ayrshire Council. The winner receives a specially commissioned award handcrafted in Scotland and the equivalent of 1759 guineas - a sum which signifies the year of the Bard's birth and the coinage in circulation at the time - equating to £1,800 in today's currency.

Burns is one of Scotland's favourite icons, encapsulating the very essence that makes Scots Scottish. More information about how to celebrate Burns' Day and the life of the Bard himself can be found at www.scotland.org/burns