She started it.
The Girls in Movement Awards 2026
Celebrating young people aged 10–21 across the UK & Ireland who are building grassroots campaigns and social initiatives that create real change. Recognising action over access — celebrating those who aren't waiting for permission to make an impact.
A movement moment — not another ceremony.
The Girls in Movement Awards 2026 shine a light on young people building grassroots campaigns and social initiatives that create real change in their communities. Powered by purpose, data and community — not celebrity.
- Celebrate girls and young people (ages 10–21) driving social, environmental and community change.
- Connect emerging changemakers with role models, mentors and funders.
- Showcase practical, creative ideas that improve equality, sustainability and opportunity locally.
- Encourage corporate and community collaboration to back the next generation of leaders.
Six ways to be recognised.
Voice Award
For young people using storytelling, media or activism to raise awareness.
STEM & Innovation Award
For grassroots tech or science projects solving real problems.
Community Impact Award
For campaigns improving local wellbeing or sustainability.
Enterprise & Creativity Award
For youth-led enterprises or creative social ideas.
Global Sisterhood Award
For international collaboration or impact projects led by girls.
Mentor of the Year
Recognising teachers or adults who've enabled change.
Different by design.
Action, not background
We spotlight young people from underrepresented regions, schools and backgrounds — action is the only qualifier.
Local in feel, global in reach
Rooted in the UK & Ireland, connected to our international chapters in India, Kenya and beyond via digital showcases.
Community-led & data-driven
Not another celebrity-led ceremony — a movement moment powered by schools, partners and young leaders themselves.
Lean & values-first
Five to six high-impact categories instead of dozens of trophies. Focused recognition that actually means something.
Roadmap to 2026.
Building toward a national ceremony in autumn 2026, aligned with International Day of the Girl and Global Entrepreneurship Week.
- 1Concept, sponsor & partner outreachQ1 2025
- 2Venue, judging panel & categories confirmedQ2 2025
- 3Nominations campaign launchesQ3 2025
- 4Shortlist & storytelling prepQ4 2025
- 5Local recognition & virtual showcasesQ1 2026
- 6National awards ceremonyOct–Nov 2026
Good to know.
Who can apply?
Any young person aged 10–21 living in the UK or Ireland. Nominations are open to individuals, school clubs and informal groups — no registered organisation needed.
How much is the grand prize?
The grand prize is £1,000, awarded to fuel the winner's project or community work. Category winners receive mentorship, spotlight features and digital badges for their school.
What kinds of projects are you looking for?
Grassroots social, environmental and community initiatives — from campaigns and enterprises to STEM projects, media, mentoring and activism. If it's creating change, we want to hear about it.
When will the ceremony take place?
The national awards ceremony is timed for October–November 2026, aligning with International Day of the Girl and Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Can adults be nominated?
Yes — the Mentor of the Year award recognises teachers or adults who've enabled young people to lead change.
How do I apply?
Hit the Apply button below, tell us your story, and share what you'd do with the prize. We read every application.
Ready to say "she started it"?
Nominate yourself, a friend, a pupil, or a mentor. We read every single application.