Khan was recognised for over two decades of leadership in developing locally led solutions that empower marginalised communities with opportunity, dignity and hope. The 67-year-old founded Friendship in 2002. The award ceremony will be held in Manila on November 15

Friendship NGO founder Runa Khan has been named a recipient of the 2026 Ramon Magsaysay Award, making her the 14th recipient of the prestigious honour from Bangladesh, following, among others, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The formal award ceremony will be held on November 15 in Manila, Philippines.

Khan has been honoured for more than two decades of leadership in developing locally led solutions that empower marginalised communities to live with greater opportunity, dignity and hope.

The Ramon Magsaysay Award is considered Asia’s premier prize and highest honour. Often described as the “Nobel Prize of Asia”, it recognises “greatness of spirit” and transformative leadership across the region.

Who is Runa Khan?