Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, the winner of the 2012 edition of the African Heroes Award, received the prestigious award in Athens, Ohio, Sunday, February 12, 2012. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the award. Instituted to mark the release of the former South African President, Nelson Mandela, from 27 years of incarceration, marking the end of apartheid, and dedicated to him, it is in recognition of exemplary leadership, selfless contribution, and enduring commitment to improving the lives of people of African descent both on the continent and in the diaspora.