Five Leaders Honored with 2025 Just Brooklyn Prize Grants

The Social Justice Fund and Brooklyn Org announced the winners of the third annual Just Brooklyn Prize on Monday, recognizing five local leaders for their impactful contributions to the borough. Each recipient will receive an unrestricted grant of $20,000 to support their initiatives aimed at building power and strengthening communities throughout Brooklyn.

This year’s honorees represent diverse fields, including community safety, arts and culture, education, and youth mentorship. The winners were celebrated during a free public ceremony held at the Barclays Center on Friday, which featured a keynote address from actor Jamie Hector.

Clara Wu Tsai, founder of the Social Justice Fund and owner of the Brooklyn Nets, expressed the importance of the prize, stating, “We started the Just Brooklyn Prize as a collective ‘thank you’ to honor community leaders. We hope that our support allows them to breathe easier while they continue to do their great work.” She added that the honorees inspire her with their efforts to enhance access to the arts, expand mentorship opportunities, and tackle community safety issues, ultimately making Brooklyn a better home for everyone.

The recipients of the 2025 Just Brooklyn Prize were praised for embodying the spirit of dedication essential to the borough’s communities. Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Brooklyn Org, highlighted their relentless commitment to change: “These five fantastic leaders embody the spirit of relentless dedication to change that is the lifeblood of Brooklyn’s communities, and we are thrilled to celebrate their contributions and elevate their example.”

The Just Brooklyn Prize aims to shine a light on local leaders making significant strides in their respective fields. By providing financial support and public recognition, the initiative seeks to encourage further impact and inspire others to contribute to their communities. The event at Barclays Center served not only as a celebration of these leaders but also as a reminder of the collective power within Brooklyn’s neighborhoods.

As Brooklyn continues to navigate challenges and opportunities, the work of these prize winners illustrates the vital role community leadership plays in shaping a vibrant and inclusive environment for all residents. Their commitment and achievements will undoubtedly inspire future generations to engage in meaningful change within their own communities.