The Department of Youth Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, a division operating under the nation’s Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, has officially launched the nomination period for two of the country’s most prestigious honors for young people and youth advocates: the 2026 National Youth Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Awards. This annual recognition program aims to celebrate outstanding contributions across a wide spectrum of sectors, shining a spotlight on emerging young talent and honoring longstanding commitment to youth empowerment across the twin-island nation.
For the National Youth Awards, the department has expanded categories to cover 14 distinct fields, ensuring that excellence in every corner of national life is acknowledged. The award categories include Environment, which recognizes young leaders driving climate action and ecological stewardship; the Phoenix Award, which celebrates individuals who have overcome extraordinary adversity to achieve their goals; and the Pioneer Award, which honors trailblazers breaking new ground in their chosen fields. Additional categories cover Activism, Artisan work, Agriculture, Culinary Arts, Media Practice, Tourism, Culture and Performing Arts, Community Service, Entrepreneurship, Education, and Student Research. Each category is designed to uplift the diverse work that young Antiguans and Barbudans contribute to national growth.
Alongside the youth-focused honors, nominations are also open for the Lifetime Achievement Awards, a special recognition that pays tribute to veteran individuals who have dedicated their entire careers and lives to advancing youth development and empowerment in Antigua and Barbuda. Unlike the National Youth Awards which center rising young talent, this honor highlights the enduring legacy of mentors, advocates, and community leaders who have created lasting opportunities for generations of young people.
Eligible candidates can be nominated by any member of the public, with all submissions required to be submitted by the formal deadline of September 25, 2026. Following the close of nominations, a panel of adjudicators will review submissions, and the formal awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 28, 2026, where winners will be publicly celebrated for their achievements. Department officials have urged community members to actively participate in the nomination process by putting forward deserving candidates who have made notable impacts in their fields. For anyone seeking additional information about eligibility criteria, nomination procedures, or category requirements, inquiries can be made by phone at (268) 781-3078 during regular business hours.