Uyunkar Domingo Peas Nampichkai, a champion for Indigenous rights and environmental protection in the Ecuadorian Amazon, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Jolli Humanitarian Award. For more than 30 years, Domingo has dedicated his life to empowering Indigenous communities, protecting the rainforest, and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders. He leads the Amazon Sacred Headwaters Alliance, co-founded the Living Amazon School for Indigenous youth, and helped create community-based conservation and tourism projects in his home region.
The Jolli Humanitarian Award, established in 2010 by Riverdale parent Gregg Hymowitz and presented annually by the sophomore class, recognizes extraordinary contributions to humanity. Domingo’s selection celebrates his lifelong commitment to service, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous leadership.
At the award assembly, Jion Tsuzuki ’27 introduced Domingo and shared how his environmental activism inspired him. In his nomination essay, Jion wrote, “Despite our differences in appearance, culture, and lifestyle, Domingo’s work emphasizes our shared responsibility to care for this planet. His courage and vision show us the interconnectedness of humanity and nature.” He also added, “Domingo proves that one person’s dedication can inspire change across the world, and that protecting our environment is a responsibility we all share.”
Domingo encouraged students to see themselves as climate activists, emphasizing that even small actions can make a difference. During a Q&A, he shared a story about his mother teaching him to prioritize service to his people over personal gain. He urged students to learn more about the Amazon, find ways to support its communities, and reflect on how global challenges connect to their own lives.
