Twenty outstanding young people from the five regions across the Commonwealth have been shortlisted as finalists for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work.

Known as the Commonwealth Youth Awards, it highlights young people who spearhead impactful, sustainable development initiatives in their communities and innovative solutions that advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

After a rigorous two-stage judging process led by 57 Pan-Commonwealth adjudicators, these young social entrepreneurs, climate champions, innovators, and health advocates have emerged as this year’s finalists. Whittled down from 977 entries, a rise from just over 800 in 2024, and an initial shortlist of 28 candidates, these 20 standouts represent the very best of youth impact across the Commonwealth.

This year, Fawaz Adebisi, Premium Times, Lead Investigative Journalist and Felicity Adebisi Akwa – Earthwward, Spoken-Word Artist, have been shortlisted for The Patsy Robertson Award for Outstanding Communications Skills in Advancing Community Development and Peace. The prize is a special category for writers and a part of the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work.

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, congratulated the 20 finalists who represent every region of the Commonwealth. She said: “At the Commonwealth Secretariat, we believe that young people must be at the forefront of shaping solutions.
Their research, innovation and voice are essential to the future we are trying to build. A future where these young leaders are empowered to tackle poverty, fight for climate justice, advocate for education, and bring hope to communities in need across our 56 nations.

“We are committed to recognising, nurturing and celebrating these young changemakers by creating platforms such as the Youth Awards that spotlight their potential on a global stage.”