Dhaka, 16 August (V7N) – In a renewed effort to celebrate youth-driven change, the Commonwealth Youth Programme has opened its call for nominations for the 2026 edition of the Commonwealth Youth Awards (CYA). The initiative recognises young leaders between the ages of 15 and 29 whose work significantly contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The awards provide a global platform for young innovators, entrepreneurs, environmentalists, health advocates, educators, and social reformers who are transforming their communities through impactful projects. Each year, one outstanding young individual is honoured as the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, alongside five regional winners representing Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe & Canada, and the Pacific.

Bangladesh had a moment of pride earlier this year when Murad Ansary was named the 2025 Commonwealth Youth Award Asia Regional Winner, earning a £3,000 cash grant. His project stood out among strong entries from across Asia, and his recognition has amplified Bangladesh’s presence in the international youth leadership arena.

As nominations for 2026 begin, the Commonwealth Secretariat is urging more Bangladeshi youths to come forward and apply. The awards serve not only as recognition but also provide tangible support for young leaders to expand their initiatives. All finalists will receive a grant of £1,000. Regional winners will get an additional £2,000, while the overall Commonwealth Young Person of the Year will receive an extra £2,000, totalling £5,000.

The launch of the 2026 nominations coincides with International Youth Day (IYD) 2025, which marks the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. A special broadcast on the Commonwealth Secretariat’s YouTube channel will feature past awardees reflecting on how the programme has boosted their initiatives and connected them with global opportunities.

Highlighting the importance of youth in global development, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said, “Across our 56 member countries, young people are not waiting for permission to act. They are turning the SDGs into local realities, running for office, mentoring youth, developing climate solutions, and leading by example.”

This year’s edition of the awards is also notable for its partnership with the Commonwealth Association, reinforcing the Secretariat’s commitment to creating new pathways for youth advancement.

Layne Robinson, Head of Social Policy Development, added, “The awards have consistently elevated young voices and solutions. This milestone year is a chance to spotlight the powerful contributions of the next generation.”

Reflecting on his journey, 2025 award winner Stanley Anigbogu, founder of LightEd, said, “Winning the award was a surreal and empowering experience. It opened doors to partnerships, visibility, and greater impact.”

Nominations for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards must be submitted online by 17 October 2025, 23:59 GMT. Interested applicants or nominators can access the portal via the Commonwealth Secretariat's official website.

As the world celebrates a decade of the SDGs, the Commonwealth continues to place youth at the heart of progress, inviting the next wave of changemakers—especially from countries like Bangladesh—to lead boldly and be recognised globally.

END/PR/SMA/