From refugee mental health platforms to grassroots climate solutions, the UN SDG Action Campaign has opened applications for the 2026 UN SDG Action Awards, calling for its next “Heroes of Tomorrow.”
The global initiative recognizes individuals and organizations advancing the United Nations’s Sustainable Development Goals, spotlighting changemakers tackling issues such as climate action, gender equality, education, and peacebuilding.
Launched as part of the SDG Global Festival of Action, the awards celebrate those driving impactful change across communities worldwide.
Marina Ponti, global director of the UN SDG Action Campaign, said the effort aims to amplify voices often left unheard. “The Heroes of Tomorrow are people who choose to act — often in the face of incredible challenges. They’re bold, persistent, and deeply committed to creating a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world,” she said.
The 2026 awards will feature three categories: Changemaker, recognising leadership in justice, equality, and peace; Creativity, highlighting initiatives that use art and innovation to inspire action; and Resilience, focusing on efforts addressing conflict, inequality, and climate challenges.
Among past success stories is Syrian refugee Jin Dawod, who transformed her personal experience into a mental health platform now supporting displaced communities across 26 countries. Ponti also highlighted Julienne Lusenge, known for her work supporting survivors of gender-based violence and promoting peacebuilding in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“These are not just inspiring stories — they are proof of what’s possible,” Ponti said, adding that such efforts demonstrate that meaningful change is already underway, even in the most difficult circumstances.
The awards have drawn around 5,500 applications from 190 countries in recent years. Submissions are evaluated on impact, scalability, innovation, and a distinctive “wow factor” that sets standout initiatives apart.
However, Ponti acknowledged imbalances in participation, noting that language barriers — particularly the program’s reliance on English — can limit access for some applicants. Efforts are underway to improve inclusivity through broader outreach, language support, and stronger local partnerships.
She also called on governments to invest in grassroots changemakers through resources, capacity building, and opportunities to scale their work.
Applications open on April 15 and close on May 17, with finalists invited to attend an award ceremony later in the year.
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