BAMBI has been attracting stars and idols for 75 years, combining glamour and unpretentiousness like no other media award. Many people have been several times. But this was my first. I was swept up in the excitement.
For nearly three decades, “Die Arche” has served as a safe haven for children and young people from underprivileged backgrounds. This Protestant aid organisation offers vital support to children facing academic struggles or emotional challenges, providing them with hope and a pathway to a brighter future. In recognition of this work, “Die Arche” will receive the BAMBI 2024 Award in the category “Silent Heroes”, with the award accepted by its founder and chairman, Bernd Siggelkow.
Pastor Bernd Siggelkow combats the material and emotional tolls of child poverty through ‘Die Arche’. For thousands of at-risk children, ‘Die Arche’ is a sanctuary of hope and opportunity, where they find the tools to shape a self-determined future.
BAMBI jury
The Tribute to Bambi Foundation has also contributed to ‘Die Arche’ centres in Munich, Düsseldorf, and Berlin.
Supporting Children Across 30 Locations
Pastor Bernd Siggelkow founded “Die Arche” in 1995 as a ‘Christian children’s and youth organisation’ in Berlin, driven by the alarming levels of child poverty in Germany and a commitment to make a difference. “Die Arche” offers comprehensive support to children from socially disadvantaged families, including free hot meals, academic tutoring, and, most importantly, a sense of security, compassion, and encouragement. Since its founding location in Berlin, “Die Arche” has expanded to over 30 centres in 17 German cities – including Dresden, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich, and Stuttgart – as well as in Poland and Switzerland.
The child and youth welfare organisation relies primarily on donations to operate. It is staffed by 350 full-time employees and 350 volunteers who work tirelessly to make a difference in children’s lives.
In 2005, “Die Arche” was awarded the Carl von Ossietzky Medal by the International League for Human Rights. In 2008, Bernd Siggelkow received the Federal Cross of Merit in recognition of his work with socially disadvantaged children and families.
Germany’s Biggest Media Award Returns
Since 1948, BAMBI has honoured individuals who have made a significant impact in Germany, achieved outstanding accomplishments, and serve as role models for the German public. This year, the award will be presented in up to twelve categories. BAMBI’s media partner is Prime Video, and the event will be streamed live at prime time from Bavaria Film Studios on November 7, 2024.
Official BAMBI Partners 2024
For the second consecutive year, BAMBI will be held in Munich, sponsored by the Bavarian State Chancellery. The event is supported by numerous partners, including major companies and brands. Streaming service Prime Video will broadcast the award ceremony live as a new media partner. Other official BAMBI partners this year are Aigner, Chauffeur Service Blacklane, Chopard, Elasten Trinkkollagen, HolidayCheck, IhreApotheken.de, Marc Cain, Real Techniques, Schwarzkopf, Dr. Barbara Sturm and Yacht-Magazin. Additional partners include Augustiner, Canonita, Champagne Laurent-Perrier, Degussa, Depot, Edeka, Masi, mey and Staatl. Fachingen.
