Human Rights Award
2007 Recipients
Rhoda Mzingo
Rhoda Mzingo was recognized for her commitment to well-being and justice
for all people, particularly caring for the sick and working on behalf of
women, children, and those who suffer from HIV-AIDS.
A native of Kenya, Rhoda is a nurse with Participatory Human Development
training. A prime advocate for women as full participants in social and economic
life, she has focused on supporting widows and their children. Rhoda established
the Orphans and Widows’ support group in Mtopanga Housing Area, which takes in
HIV-AIDS orphans and destitute men and women.
Rhoda has personally cared for those who suffer from the devastating effects
of HIV-AIDS. She has also become a champion for HIV-AIDS prevention education,
working with high-risk populations to convey the vital and practical ways for
stemming the tide of this pandemic.
Rhoda and her family are active in Community of Christ and have served the
church in various capacities. Rhoda has been Women’s Ministries Coordinator and
Congregational Oblation Ministries Coordinator at a local level. She has also
been the Community Health Training Facilitator for the church in Zambia, Congo,
Malawi and Kenya.
Rod Downing
Rod Downing was recognized for his many activities that display his passion
for the well-being of human beings and all of creation. A native of Canada,
Rod works full-time as a computer software designer.
He has been an active supporter, volunteer, and donor of the human
development organization World Accord since its inception, and has served on the
Board of Directors for more than 10 years. World Accord Director Terry Fielder
said, “Rod is in the group of my most respected people, which includes Mahatma
Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Ed Guy, and Mother Teresa.”
Rod also produces a human
rights newsletter and has served on the Community of Christ Peace and
Justice Committee for the last three years. In Vancouver, Canada, Rod is
president of the Agape Society, which is involved in housing and programs for
at-risk youth. He has offered classes on peace and justice throughout Canada and
published numerous articles.
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