Five Brooklyn Leaders Honored with 2025 Just Brooklyn Prize

The Social Justice Fund and Brooklyn Org recently announced the winners of the third annual Just Brooklyn Prize, recognizing five local leaders for their impactful efforts to foster change in the borough. Each recipient will receive an unrestricted grant of $20,000 to support their initiatives aimed at empowering and strengthening Brooklyn communities.

The honorees were celebrated during a public ceremony held at Barclays Center on March 15, 2025, which included a keynote address by actor Jamie Hector. This year’s recipients are acknowledged for their work across various sectors, including community safety, arts and culture, education, and youth mentorship.

Celebrating Community Leadership

Clara Wu Tsai, founder of the Social Justice Fund and owner of the Brooklyn Nets, expressed gratitude towards the community leaders, 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.” Tsai highlighted the importance of the recipients’ contributions, noting their efforts to expand access to the arts, increase mentorship opportunities, and address issues related to community safety.

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Brooklyn Org, echoed this sentiment, saying, “These five fantastic leaders embody the spirit of relentless dedication to change that is the lifeblood of Brooklyn’s communities. We are thrilled to celebrate their contributions and elevate their example.”

The recognition of these leaders reinforces the importance of community engagement in creating a positive impact within the borough. By providing resources and a platform for these individuals, the Just Brooklyn Prize aims to inspire others to take action in their neighborhoods.

Each of the five winners has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their respective causes, showcasing the diverse ways in which leadership can manifest within a community. The prize not only acknowledges their hard work but also aims to amplify their voices and initiatives, ensuring that their efforts continue to resonate throughout Brooklyn.

As the borough continues to evolve, the contributions of these changemakers serve as a reminder of the power of local leadership in fostering positive change and building resilient communities. The Just Brooklyn Prize stands as a testament to the collective effort to uplift voices that are making significant differences in the lives of Brooklyn residents.