Obesity Matters Recognized by United Nations for Community-Driven and Stigma-Free Model of Care

October 2025

We are honoured to announce that Obesity Matters has been awarded the prestigious 2025 United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force Award (UNIATF). This global recognition celebrates our commitment to breaking down barriers, reducing stigma, and improving the lives of individuals living with obesity.

The UNIATF award recognizes organizations that drive multisectoral action to reduce noncommunicable diseases and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This year, Obesity Matters was selected alongside 12 countries and six other international organizations for the meaningful progress we’ve made in the obesity medicine space.

“This award affirms that lived experience matters,” said Sandra Elia, Chair of Obesity Matters. “When people feel supported, understood, and treated with dignity, meaningful change is possible—not only in Canada, but anywhere in the world.”

Our OM Wellness Workshop initiative has reached 10 million people worldwide, successfully reducing self-blame by 36% and decreasing feelings of guilt and shame by 29%.

“This honour is not just for our organization, but for every individual who has shared their story, challenged stigma, and demanded dignity in care,” said Priti Chawla Karunakaran, Founder and Executive Director of Obesity Matters.

Read the full article in Healthing: Obesity Matters recognized by UN for community-driven and stigma-free model of care

Read the official WHO press release: Countries and global leaders recognized for their action to tackle the obesity crisis