The Church of Scientology of Amsterdam celebrated Humanitarian Day 2025 by honoring Shantha Dalumagage, Morgana Sythove, and Ineke Hilhorst for their outstanding contributions to human rights, interfaith dialogue, and social initiatives.
Amsterdam, Netherlands — August 23, 2025 — The spirit of compassion and service took center stage on Saturday afternoon as the annual Humanitarian Awards were celebrated in Amsterdam. The event, held at the Chapel of the Church of Scientology of Amsterdam, brought together leaders, activists, and community members to recognize individuals whose work embodies dedication to humanity and positive social change.
Organized by the recognized ANBI (Public Benefit Organization), the Church of Scientology of Amsterdam, this year’s ceremony honored three exceptional individuals: Shantha Dalumagage, Morgana Sythove, and Ineke Hilhorst.
The awards were presented by Gerbrig Deinum, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology Amsterdam, in a ceremony inspired by the humanitarian vision of L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology, who taught that “my own philosophy is that one should share what wisdom he has, one should help others to help themselves and one should keep going despite heavy weather, for there is always a calm ahead.”
Adding to the significance of the occasion, Eric Roux, Global Chair of the United Religions Initiative (URI), traveled from Brussels to attend and speak about URI’s worldwide efforts to promote interfaith cooperation and peace-building. The presence of URI members highlighted the international impact of the awardees’ work.
Honoring Efforts to Improve Lives
Each Humanitarian Award recipient was recognized for their unique and profound contributions—ranging from international human rights campaigns to interreligious dialogue and local social initiatives that foster compassion and understanding.
Shantha Dalumagage: Championing Human Rights and Equality in Sri Lanka
The first award of the afternoon went to Shantha Dalumagage, a lawyer and founder of the Mission Lanka Foundation, dedicated to advancing human rights in Sri Lanka.
Working closely with United for Human Rights International, Shantha has spearheaded initiatives that include spreading awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, improving education in rural areas, and supporting women’s empowerment.
Beyond education and advocacy, his foundation provides clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, and free legal aid for those unable to afford it. Shantha has also been outspoken on environmental issues, actively campaigning against ecocide—the severe destruction of ecosystems and the environment.
His holistic approach to human rights addresses not only individual freedoms but also the broader well-being of communities, making him a worthy and inspiring recipient of the Humanitarian Award 2025.
“Shantha’s tireless efforts have improved the lives of countless individuals in Sri Lanka,” said Gerbrig Deinum. “His work is a shining example of what it means to serve humanity.”
Morgana Sythove: Building Bridges Across Faiths
The second award was presented to Morgana Sythove, honored for her global role as a spiritual leader and Global Trustee of the United Religions Initiative (URI), an international organization dedicated to fostering peace and understanding among diverse religious and spiritual traditions.
Morgana is a leading voice in the folk religious movement and an internationally oriented Wiccan priestess. Her work focuses on connecting people across religious boundaries, strengthening eco-spiritual communities, supporting humanitarian initiatives, and advocating for women’s rights and ecological justice.
She has represented these causes on the global stage, speaking multiple times at the Parliament of the World’s Religions, including landmark gatherings in Barcelona and Toronto. Through these appearances and her travels worldwide, Morgana has become an influential opinion leader in the interfaith community.
During her speech, Morgana shared insights into Paganism, explaining that the Dutch word heiden—commonly translated as “heathen”—originally meant “from the heath”, signifying a connection with nature and spirituality rather than a rejection of belief.
“It is about understanding the rhythm of the moon and the cycles of nature,” she explained. “Far from being non-spiritual, it is a profound expression of reverence for life.”
Her award was presented in the presence of many URI members, including Eric Roux, emphasizing the global network of cooperation and harmony she represents.
Ineke Hilhorst: Creativity, Compassion, and Community
The third award went to Ineke Hilhorst, a versatile pioneer whose work spans documentary filmmaking, television production, coaching, and community strategy. Ineke’s initiatives bridge past and present, using creativity and storytelling to foster understanding and connection.
Among her notable contributions are the creation of monuments designed to promote tolerance, such as “Vreemde Vogels” (Strange Birds) in Amsterdam and “De Drie Mannetjes” (The Three Little Men) in Laren. These works are not static memorials; they are accompanied by annual programs of discussions, lectures, and educational activities through initiatives like the Table for Tolerance, making them “living monuments” that continually engage the community.
Her humanitarian spirit extends far beyond her local projects. Ineke has been active in refugee support efforts, even helping an Afghan women’s rights activist escape the Taliban and find safety in Germany.
Her blend of creativity, dedication, and compassion has strengthened communities and inspired countless others to take action, making her a deeply deserving recipient of the Humanitarian Award 2025.
A Celebration of Service and Humanity
The ceremony reflected the values at the heart of Humanitarian Day: service, compassion, and unity. The presence of international guests and local community leaders highlighted the interconnectedness of today’s world and the shared responsibility to address humanitarian challenges.
As the awards were presented, Gerbrig Deinum emphasized the role of individual action in creating positive change:
“These awards honor individuals whose actions embody the very best of humanity,” she said. “By recognizing their achievements, we inspire others to step forward and create a more caring and peaceful world.”
Ivan Arjona, the European representative of the Church of Scientology, also attended the event and praised the awardees’ commitment to service:
“These individuals remind us that real change comes from people who act with compassion and courage. Their work aligns with our shared mission to build a world where human dignity and rights are respected everywhere,” said Arjona.
The evening concluded with heartfelt applause for the honorees, a testament to the power of visionaries who dedicate their lives to the service of others.
Inspired by L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology’s Global Mission
The event was guided by the humanitarian vision of L. Ron Hubbard, who emphasized that true value lies in helping others. This principle is also central to the global work led by Mr. David Miscavige, the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, whose leadership has expanded the Church’s humanitarian initiatives worldwide to unprecedented levels.
The Church of Scientology of Amsterdam, as the official organizer of the event, continues to foster programs that promote education, human rights, and community empowerment. The Humanitarian Awards serve as a living expression of this mission, celebrating individuals whose actions make the world a better place.
“The achievements of Shantha, Morgana, and Ineke are proof that each of us has the power to create positive change,” added Ivan Arjona. “They are an inspiration to us all.”
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