The legendary British brand is still making headlines with the launch of the Defender Awards, a brand new initiative designed to celebrate and bolster the efforts of everyday heroes fighting for the environment and humanitarian causes at the local level. For the winners: a substantial grant, support from experts, and, the cherry on the hood, a Defender vehicle ready to tackle all terrains to accompany their most ambitious projects.
Defender, the legendary British brand, is taking a new step in its commitment to the planet and solidarity causes by launching the Defender Awards! This inaugural edition aims to shine a spotlight on the true everyday heroes, those who work on the ground to preserve nature or support vulnerable populations, often away from the limelight. With a generous grant of €120,000, a Defender vehicle loaned for two years, and personalized support from experts, these awards are a real opportunity for local organizations that are making a difference. Here’s a brief overview of an operation that promises great surprises.
When the Defender Paves the Way for Altruism and Ecology
Since 1948, Defender has continued to traverse the dusty roads and rugged terrains all over the world, often in service of just causes. This mythical vehicle, a true Swiss army knife on four wheels, has made history by lending a hand to both the Red Cross and wildlife defenders. True to its engaged DNA, the brand is now launching the Defender Awards to honor those who dare to act to change the world on their own terms.
A Unique Springboard for Small Associations
Unlike the usual trophies reserved for large international organizations, the Defender Awards celebrate small and medium-sized associations or NGOs, those that, often in the shadows, deploy a massive amount of energy for the common cause. This initiative spans two years and is aimed at organizations from seven countries, including France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and South Africa. The watchword: facilitate grassroots action, where every gesture counts doubly.
Awarding Commitments Commensurate with Their Efforts
€120,000 in grants, a Defender available for two years, tailored support from a panel of experts… the offering is impressive! More importantly, it aims to give a concrete and sustainable boost to the winning projects, providing both financial and logistical means to advance their development. When you know that many associations struggle to find resources to operate in remote or hard-to-reach areas, such support promises to turn dreams into actions.
A Renowned French Jury and Exceptional Categories
In France, projects will be judged by an all-star team: pioneer Bertrand Picard, daring polar explorer Alban Michon, and talented photographer and filmmaker JC Pierru. In terms of categories, there is something for all defenders with Defenders of the Wild (protection of endangered species), Defenders of Humanity (support for vulnerable communities), Defenders of the Land (preservation of natural spaces), and Defenders of the Sea (safeguarding marine ecosystems). Every idea, every initiative, every voice counts!
Defender: A Tradition of Commitment to the Planet
The Defender Awards did not come out of nowhere. Since its inception, Defender has distinguished itself through tangible actions, whether it is on the roads of Africa alongside the Tusk organization to save over 50,000 hectares of natural habitats and protect more than 40 endangered species, or in awareness and solidarity campaigns all around the globe. This new initiative is just a natural extension of a saga where innovation aligns with generosity.
Submitting Applications: The Start is Launched
Until June 16, 2025, all motivated organizations can apply and try to secure their place among the seven dream winners of the Defender Awards. The perfect opportunity to take the wheel of the legendary Defender and embark on new challenges, with the support of an entire network of experts ready to propel their initiative toward success.
