Commonwealth Communication Crown: New Award for Young Media Voices
The 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards have opened with a special opportunity for young journalists and communication professionals across Asia and other regions. For the first time, the awards will feature a new category titled “The Patsy Robertson Award for Outstanding Communication Skills in Advancing Community Development and Peace.”
This new category will particularly emphasize digital proficiency and media innovation. The award will recognize young journalists, writers, broadcasters, and communication practitioners who demonstrate courage, creativity, and commitment in promoting media freedom, inclusive societies, and democracy.
Alongside editors, reporters, and photojournalists, applicants may include webcasters, social media activists, commentators, broadcasters, bloggers, podcasters, and streamers. Winners will receive a cash prize of £1,000, along with a certificate and a trophy.
According to the general rules of the Commonwealth Youth Awards, applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth member country and between 15 and 29 years of age as of December 31, 2025. They must have been engaged for at least 12 months—professionally or as volunteers—in development-related work and made a significant contribution toward achieving one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
To qualify for the Patsy Robertson Award, applicants must submit samples of their work, professional references, and evidence demonstrating how their efforts advance SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
The application deadline is October 17, 2025, and submissions can be made online through the official awards portal.
