Celebrating Excellence in Oncology: Yvonne Awards 2025 at ASCO Annual Meeting

The Yvonne Awards 2025, presented by OncoDaily during the ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago, brought together a powerful gathering of oncologists, researchers, and global health leaders in a celebration of excellence, mentorship, courage, and advocacy in cancer care. Held against the picturesque backdrop of the Chicago Riverwalk, the event recognized individuals whose voices and actions have significantly shaped oncology worldwide.

This year’s honorees exemplify what the Yvonne Awards stand for: courage to challenge norms, dedication to community, and an unwavering commitment to patients and the oncology ecosystem. The night was filled with heartfelt stories, meaningful connections, and deep gratitude — a reminder of the transformative power of purpose-driven work.

Highlights from the 2025 Yvonne Awardees and the Community

Dr. Paolo Tarantino received the Yvonne “Top Voice” Award, acknowledging his impactful presence in the oncology discourse space. Reflecting on the moment, he shared:

“Receiving the Yvonne ‘Top Voice’ Award tonight was a honor. Receiving it from the hands of my first and lifelong mentor Giuseppe Curigliano — priceless. Thank you OncoDaily for this award!!!” 

Dr. Luiza Pamela Beato responded with support:

“A well deserved award. Congratulations Paolo Tarantino” 

Dr. Rafeh Naqash was honored with the Mentorship Award, a testament to his role in nurturing the next generation of oncology leaders, shared:

“Honored to get the 2025 OncoDaily mentorship Yvonne Awards 2025 from the one and only Petros Grivas. And in the presence of the crew that matters the most who came and supported!” 

Dr. Petros Grivas, who presented the award, added:

“It was my pleasure to give this award to a fantastic investigator & mentor early in his career! My run in Chicago riverwalk was worth it to be there just on time. Congrats Rafeh Naqash, well deserved! Thanks OncoDaily for the opportunity!” 

Dr. Eric K. Singhi also chimed in:

“So proud of Rafeh Naqash on his award!!!” 

Dr. Bishal Gyawali was recognized with the Challenging the Status Quo Award for his bold thought leadership in pushing boundaries within cancer care, shared:

“Thank you OncoDaily for this honour. Glad to receive the Yvonne Awards 2025 this year for ‘Challenging the Status Quo’ in cancer care.

Even more delighted to receive it from the power couple in oncology – Vivek Subbiah and Ishwaria Subbiah who very eloquently summarized that challenging the status quo is all about promoting intellectual debate and discourse among colleagues and stakeholders who may have different views but all of who want the best outcomes for patients. Very honoured to receive this award.

Thank you for all those who nominated and voted for me.”

Dr. Jasmine Kamboj received the Community Oncology Award, shared:

“Amazing to be able to start ASCO Day 1 with families and friends (who are like family) – we presented the KAMBOJ-CHRISTIE Family & friends and MSCO BOARD YIA Award, shared my story with the IMG CoP, got the Yvonne Awards 2025 for community oncology by OncoDaily, and connected with my LDP Group.” 

Dr. Darya Kizub was presented with the Humanitarian Award for her tireless efforts in supporting oncologists in Ukraine. Dr. Katherine Van Loon remarked:

“Congratulations to Darya Kizub for receiving the Humanitarian Award at the OncoDaily Yvonne Awards for her work to support oncologists in Ukraine. Wonderful to celebrate this important work at ASCO2025.”

Dr. Sagal Pannu expressed admiration for Dr. Naqash’s dual recognitions:

“The true measure of a man lies not in what he does for himself, but in what he does for others. Couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of the ASCO – Conquer Cancer Foundation Career Development Award and the OncoDaily Yvonne Mentorship Award 2025!

Thank you for always uplifting us, treating us like family and for all that you do! We’re all super proud today!” 

Dr. Wafik El-Deiry captured the spirit of legacy and inspiration that the evening fostered:

“Always great to see a Giant in the field of Oncology Dr. Larry Norton, MSKCancer Center at OncoDaily Yvonne Award 2025 event.” 

Dr. Chris Poulios captured the spirit of the evening:

“Evenings too at ASCO25 are dedicated to cancer care, research, and more!

OncoDaily Yvonne Awards!”

He also highlighted a memorable moment from the evening:

“Special moment: the award of past EU Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides by European Cancer CEO Elisabetta Zanon and past ECO president Matti Aapro.”

Stella Kyriakides also shared:

“Feeling so very honoured to receive the Yvonne Award 2025. I dedicate this award to all patients , advocates, caregivers , scientists and all who work side by side to change the realities of cancer . Progress is  made when  we all stand together.”

Finally, Dr. Julie Gralow offered a beautiful reflection:

“Beautiful evening on the Chicago Riverwalk with Ukrainian colleagues at the OncoDaily event.” 

 About the Yvonne Awards 2025

Initiated by OncoDaily, the Yvonne Awards honor oncology professionals who inspire, lead, and uplift through their voice, mentorship, humanitarian efforts, and advocacy. The awards are named in tribute to the spirit of resilience and empathy — values that define the very best in cancer care.

As the oncology world gathered at ASCO 2025, the Yvonne Awards served as a meaningful reminder that beyond data and treatments, it is people — their stories, values, and passion — that shape the future of cancer care.

For more on the 2025 Yvonne Award recipients, visit.