This week, National Geographic launched the National Geographic 33, a dynamic list honoring 33 extraordinary individuals whose imaginative ideas and unstoppable drive are making the world a better place. They named Don Cheadle, a strong advocate for human rights and climate justice as a changemaker creating a better future for the planet.
“I’ve always been very concerned about justice and representation,” said Don Cheadle for National Geographic. “Then when you become a father, every concern in the world falls in your lap. There was nothing I didn’t worry about. You start to think about the world writ large and how none of us are going to escape the effects of what happens on this planet.”
From Hollywood heavyweights and fearless scientists to climate warriors and trailblazing entrepreneurs, National Geographic 33 highlights a wide range of innovators and icons whose work ranges from saving our winters to advocating for mental health and revolutionizing high fashion to make it more sustainable. Following an expansive nomination and vetting process, Don Cheadle was named as one of theNational Geographic 33 by National Geographic’s editors upon the recommendation of the magazine’s staff, contributors and members of the National Geographic community. A goodwill ambassador for the UN Environment Programme and member of the board of directors of The Solutions Project, Cheadle was selected for his efforts in battling climate injustice, one at-risk community at a time.
“Congratulations to Don Cheadle for being recognized by National Geographic’s inaugural NatGeo33 list for his leadership in making the world a better place. For me, and The Solutions Project, Don is a comrade, dedicated board member, and Champion for Justice using his platform to amplify frontline leaders—Black, Brown, Indigenous, and communities of color who are driving bold climate solutions,” said Gloria Walton, CEO & President of The Solutions Project. “Don’s unwavering commitment to fighting climate injustice exemplifies the leadership we need in this critical moment. We are proud to stand alongside him as he receives this well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to continuing our work together to uplift those most impacted by the climate crisis. So grateful to call him friend and have him as part of this movement!”
Learn more about Don Cheadle’s work!
In homage to National Geographic’s 33 founders—who, in 1888, saw an urgent need to deepen humanity’s understanding of our world and protection of our planet—National Geographic 33 celebrates a diverse group of 33 changemakers actively addressing this need today. The inaugural class works across a range of fields, from botany to film to space, and has collectively raised and distributed millions for climate action, social equity, scientific research, humanitarian aid and more, among their other achievements. Cheadle’s fellow honorees include actor, advocate and entrepreneur Jason Momoa; actress, singer and philanthropist Selena Gomez; outdoor adventurer Pattie Gonia; professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones; Freetown, Sierra Leone, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr; and many more.
“For more than 137 years, National Geographic has been driven by the belief that bold thinking and collective action can change the world,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Content. “Since then and across all our platforms, National Geographic has believed in the power of visual storytelling to spark curiosity and inspire a deeper connection to our world. National Geographic 33 represents an exciting milestone for us, as it embodies the very essence of our brand—sharing the stories of extraordinary individuals whose work is making a meaningful impact in the hope of inspiring others to help shape a better future.”
“With the National Geographic 33, we’re honoring a diverse group of changemakers, from all over the world and different walks of life, who aren’t just recognizing the urgent challenges of our time, they are taking action to address them,” said Nathan Lump, SVP and editor-in-chief of National Geographic. “In shining a light on them and their contributions, we hope to elevate their work and showcase to a wide audience the positive impact they’re making.”