The countdown to the Global Youth Awards 2026 has officially begun!
This year, we received 237 nominations, celebrating young changemakers from 64 countries across six continents. Together, their work addresses every one of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Our global judging panel is currently reviewing the nominations, and throughout October we will begin introducing this year’s finalists.
Each announcement will be followed by opportunities to learn more about the young people, projects and stories behind the finalist names.
What happens next?
November will become Global Youth Awards Month, with award announcements, guest talks, performances, documentaries and youth showcases shared here on the Global Youth Hub.
Our provisional line-up includes:
🌍 2–7 November: Environment Week
Opening address, Environmental Leadership, Innovation and Change award announcements, guest contributions and youth showcases.
Featuring: Erfan Firouzi and Jato Sonita
📖 10–14 November: Education Week
Educational Leadership, Innovation and Change award announcements, a guest talk and a youth documentary.
Featuring: Nitya Lohiya and Splendour King
🤝 17–21 November: Empowerment Week
Empowering Leadership, Innovation and Change award announcements and guest contributions exploring advocacy, inclusion and youth-led action.
Featuring: Maya Nanan and Eden Byrne
🎭 24–28 November: Creativity Week
Creative Leadership, Innovation and Change award announcements, guest talks and creative contributions.
Featuring: Ellie Payne and Ally Zlatar
🏆 Monday 30 November: Winners Showcase
We will bring together all 12 award recipients, celebrate our runners-up and announce the Global Youth Awards 2026 Songwriting Competition winner.
The programme is still developing, so additional speakers, contributions and links will be added as they are confirmed.
Join the celebration
Are you one of this year’s nominees, or do you know an inspiring young person who has been nominated?
Introduce yourself in the comments, tell us about your project and tag the people or organisations supporting your work.
Follow us on Instagram: @legacyprojectglobal
Explore the Global Youth Hub: https://global-youth-hub.circle.so/
Learn more about Legacy Project: https://www.legacyprojectglobal.com
We cannot wait to introduce you to the remarkable young people shaping the Global Youth Awards 2026.
Save the dates and join us throughout October and November.