Gan Jing World (GJW) has officially announced the winners of its 2024 Kindness Is Cool Video Awards, a global contest that it says “celebrates the transformative power of kindness.”
The contest attracted over 26,000 acts of kindness from participants in more than 50 countries. Videos submitted were presented in 11 languages, collectively amassing over 10 million views across 150 nations, “proving that kindness is a universal language that resonates far and wide,” according to GJW.
The winners will be celebrated on March 28 in New York City’s Times Square at an event that will highlight the winning entries and showcase their stories to a global audience.
Taking home the gold award and a shared $10,000 cash prize is singer-songwriter James H. White for his video titled “Hero in Uniform: Army Sergeant Leads Hurricane Helene Relief Drive.”
White’s video honors Army Sgt. Michael Sharpes, who spearheaded a veteran-led relief effort following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Inspired by Sharpes, White composed “Born to Rise,” a song celebrating unity, resilience, and compassion during challenging times.
According to GJW, White has generously chosen to share his prize with two charitable organizations: Save Our Allies, which aids Americans and allies during crises, and Aerial Recovery, which supports veterans and first responders in disaster relief and anti-human trafficking missions worldwide.
The Silver Award recipient is Audrey for her short film “Old Shoes,” which earned her a $1,000 prize.
Based on true events, this story centers around a young woman who repeatedly discovers an old pair of shoes at her doorstep. Initially suspecting her elderly neighbor, she ultimately uncovers an unexpected act of quiet kindness.
The film’s intimate storytelling and emotional depth highlight how small gestures can profoundly impact lives, GJW said.
Gan Jing World also introduced the Student Voices School Award category this year, recognizing outstanding student filmmakers from two Vietnamese universities—Ho Chi Minh City University of Education and HCMC University of Technology and Education—with $500 each for their heartfelt video projects celebrating kindness.
Honorable mentions were awarded to “Our World,” featuring young Priscilla preparing breakfast for her grandmother while reflecting on inner beauty; and “Fable,” an animated retelling of “The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs,” delivering timeless lessons on gratitude over greed.
