Sanofi
TORCH Awards ceremony stage

2025 TORCH Awards ceremony stage

2025 TORCH Awards ceremony stage

TORCH Awards

Sanofi’s TORCH Awards, which stands for "Transforming Outreach in Rare Diseases and Creating Hope," is a recognition program celebrating champions in the rare disease and rare blood disorders communities. Launched in 2017, this prestigious awards program honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to rare disease advocacy, awareness, and support.

Program Details

Each year, the TORCH Awards recognize advocates who have found meaningful ways to bring awareness to rare diseases and have demonstrated outstanding commitment to educating, empowering, and connecting patients within the community. These inspiring individuals transform their personal experiences into powerful platforms for advocacy and change.

Winners receive special recognition and the opportunity to direct a $5,000 donation to a non-profit organization of their choosing. Following a competitive nomination period, awardees are selected through a thorough evaluation process conducted by a Sanofi designated selection committee.

Nominations for the 2026 TORCH Awards are now open click here to apply and must be submitted by April 10, 2026. Please see below for eligibility requirements and selection criteria.

Program Impact

Since its inception, the TORCH Awards have recognized dozens of inspiring advocates and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to support rare disease organizations across the country. These awards continue to shine a light on the remarkable individuals who carry the torch for the rare disease community, ensuring that rare diseases are no longer overlooked, silenced, or dismissed.

We are honored to celebrate these advocates, their significant impact, and the hope they bring to the rare disease community through their dedication to education, empowerment, connectivity, and community building. Hear their stories on Sanofi’s YouTube channel:

Click here to see our TORCH playlist.

TORCH Awards timeline with application and award milestones from February to September

2026 TORCH Awards nomination and selection process timeline

Celebration moment on stage at the TORCH Awards ceremony
2025 TORCH Awards winner Zachary Thomas accepts his award at the 2025 ceremony

Eligibility Criteria

The TORCH Awards seek to honor individuals who exemplify excellence in rare disease advocacy. Ideal candidates include:

  • Individuals who have made significant contributions to the rare disease community
  • Advocates who have demonstrated leadership in rare disease awareness and education
  • Those who have created innovative programs or initiatives that benefit the rare disease community
  • Individuals who have shown dedication to empowering patients and families affected by rare diseases

Please note, prescribing healthcare providers (HCP) are not eligible for this program.

Interaction between attendee and child at the TORCH Awards event
2025 TORCH Awards winner Mackenzie Barker signs copies of her book, "I Am a Pompe Warrior"

Nomination Process

  • Nominations are now open and must be submitted by April 10, 2026 to be considered
  • Nominations can be submitted by individuals or organizations
  • All nominations undergo a thorough review process
  • Winners are selected based on their impact, innovation, and dedication to the rare disease community
  • Selection is conducted in partnership with an internal designated review committee
  • Submit a nomination here

  • If you have any questions, please contact TorchAwards@sanofi.com

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