Established in 2008 by Inge Sargent (Sao Thusandi), the former Mahadevi of Hsipaw, the Sao Thusandi Leadership Award honors young people from Shan State who are working towards community development, peace and democracy in Shan State, particularly those working to preserve local customs and culture.

USD $4,000 is given to the awardee. There have been sixteen award winners so far, working in diverse fields including legal assistance, health, education, environment and community rights.

Although Sao Thusandi (Inge Sargent) passed away in February 2023 just prior to her 91st birthday, she always believed in the peoples of Shan State and the importance of recognizing, honouring, and providing support to those who continue to work towards peace, democracy, and prosperity for all. In accordance with her wishes and with the ongoing participation of her family, the Sao Thusandi Leadership Award will thus continue to be given out annually, continuing with Sao Mae's work and reflecting her ongoing hope for a better Shan State for all of its peoples.