2012 Commonwealth Youth Awards

Become part of a growing number of young people determined to make positive change in the world

Nominations for the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work are now open.

We are calling for entries that recognise young people whose commitment to development work within a Commonwealth country has made a difference to the lives of others.

In return, nominees will get a chance to win international recognition and support for their development project.

Designed to help celebrate the role of young people as nation builders and partners in development, the Awards offer young people under 30 an opportunity to share their contribution and inspire others to get involved.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma said: “More than any generation in history, the youth of today are shaping our social, economic and political landscape. These awards recognise their contribution in our 54 Commonwealth member states”.

The Commonwealth Youth Awards were launched on Commonwealth Day, 12 March 2012.

Deputy Secretary-General Masire-Mwamba, Mmasekgoa who oversees youth development at the Commonwealth Secretariat said: “Young people represent more than 50% of Commonwealth citizens. I have seen the excellent contribution they are making at community and national levels all across our countries. I welcome these Awards as an opportunity to tell their positive stories that often go unnoticed.”

Five Awards will be given regionally with the top entrant from each region receiving a Pan-Commonwealth Award.

Nominations opened on March 12, 2012 and will run until 31 July 2012.

The Awards are aimed at young people between the ages of 15-29 years. Entrants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country and working in a Commonwealth country.

All entries should be submitted via the link:http://www.yourcommonwealth.org/cya. Further information about the Awards can be found by downloading the Commonwealth Youth Awards brochure