On August 23, 2025, the annual Humanitarian Awards took place in Amsterdam at the Chapel of the Church of Scientology of Amsterdam. This event celebrated the efforts of individuals dedicated to humanitarian work and social change. The recognized ANBI (Public Benefit Organization), the Church of Scientology of Amsterdam, organized the ceremony, honoring Shantha Dalumagage, Morgana Sythove, and Ineke Hilhorst.
Gerbrig Deinum, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology Amsterdam, presented the awards, inspired by the humanitarian ideals of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology. Eric Roux, Global Chair of United Religions Initiative (URI), attended from Brussels, underscoring the international significance of the honorees’ efforts.
Shantha Dalumagage was recognized for his work in advancing human rights in Sri Lanka through the Mission Lanka Foundation. His contributions include promoting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, empowering women, and environmental advocacy. Gerbrig Deinum praised Shantha’s impact on Sri Lankan lives.
Morgana Sythove, a spiritual leader and Global Trustee of URI, received the second award. Her role in fostering interfaith dialogue and supporting eco-spiritual communities was highlighted. Morgana’s insights into Paganism and her contributions to interfaith cooperation were acknowledged by URI members, including Eric Roux.
Ineke Hilhorst, a documentary filmmaker and community strategist, received the third award for projects promoting tolerance and refugee support. Her initiatives, including monuments like “Vreemde Vogels,” illustrate her dedication to community engagement.
The ceremony emphasized the values of service, compassion, and unity, as discussed by Gerbrig Deinum and Ivan Arjona, European representative of the Church of Scientology. The event reflected the humanitarian vision of L. Ron Hubbard and efforts led by David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of Scientology, to expand the Church’s humanitarian initiatives globally. The Church of Scientology of Amsterdam continues to promote programs supporting education, human rights, and empowerment, embodied by the Humanitarian Awards.
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