Commonwealth youth awards 2026 adds category for young communicators

Young communications professionals across the Commonwealth are invited to apply for a new accolade in the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards. If eligible, seize this chance to submit your application and be recognised for your impact.

The new Patsy Robertson Award will honour young journalists, broadcasters and writers who use their communications skills to promote media freedom, inclusive societies and democracy.

Eligible applicants include editors, reporters, photojournalists, broadcasters, podcasters, bloggers, social media activists and commentators whose work advances SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. The winner will receive £1,000, a certificate and a trophy.

The award was introduced by the Commonwealth Association, a group of former Secretariat staff members, in memory of its first Chair, the late Patsy Robertson. Robertson served as Director of Communications at the Commonwealth Secretariat and was remembered as a fearless journalist, an advocate for women in media and a strong believer in the power of words to transform communities.

Max Gaylard, Chair of the Commonwealth Association, said:
"We honour Patsy Robertson by rewarding young people and highlighting the work of communications professionals. Young journalists do much more than tell stories—they are visionaries and architects of our democratic future. This award empowers the next generation of communicators, who strengthen the foundations of democracy itself."

Layne Robinson, Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth Secretariat, added:
"The Commonwealth Youth Awards is a platform to showcase how young leaders are driving development, enhancing democracy and delivering the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By recognising achievements in media and communications, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusive societies and good governance."

The Commonwealth Youth Awards, officially known as the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work, celebrate young leaders aged 15–29 whose efforts contribute to the 17 SDGs. To be eligible for the new award, applicants must be between 15 and 29 years old, have at least twelve months of professional or volunteer engagement in development work, and submit samples of their communications projects along with professional references. The award is open to editors, reporters, photojournalists, broadcasters, podcasters, bloggers, social media activists and commentators whose work advances Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. The winner will receive a cash prize of £1,000, a certificate and a trophy.

All eligible young communications professionals are encouraged to submit their applications for the Patsy Robertson Award and seize the opportunity to be recognised for their achievements. Take action now to share your impact and inspire others across the Commonwealth.