Who are the Heroes of Tomorrow? The Heroes of Tomorrow are fearless and persistent – they’re in every country – often working against the odds – for a better future. The Heroes of Tomorrow remind us that there is always hope and that progress starts with people.
In a time of growing global challenges, progress depends on those who choose to act now. The UN SDG Action Campaign is honoured to announce the 2026 edition of the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards.
Each year, the Awards bring together nine inspiring Finalists from all over the world for a unique programme of coaching and capacity building leading up to the live UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony in Rome on 29 October, where the Winners are announced in a live show on RAI, Italy’s national broadcaster and across UN channels.
How to Apply to the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards?
Whether you are nominating a peer or applying with your own initiative, this is an opportunity to connect your local impact with a global momentum. Applications and nominations are being accepted until 31 May 2026.
The 2026 categories are:
Changemaker Award:
This Award honours individuals leading collective action towards justice, equality, and peace.
Individuals can nominate themselves or others for the Changemaker Award.
Creativity Award:
This Award honours initiatives that inspire hope and action through visual expression, art, innovation and more.
Initiatives can apply for the Creativity Award.
Resilience Award:
This Award honours initiatives building resilience in the face of conflicts, inequalities, or climate change.
Initiatives can apply for the Resilience Award.
Previous Winners: 2025 Highlights
The 2025 edition of the Heroes of Tomorrow: UN SDG Action Awards recognized two Changemaker Award Winners.
Julienne Lusenge, a human rights defender who supports thousands of survivors of gender-based violence, while advancing peacebuilding in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Jîn Dawod, who transforms her experience as a Syrian refugee into life-changing mental health support for displaced communities across 26 countries.
Smartel received the Creativity Award for transforming agriculture with climate-smart solutions in Nigeria and beyond.
Central Única das Favelas (CUFA) received the Resilience Award for transforming favelas into hubs of talent, creativity, and innovation.
SMARTEL
Creativity Award Winner 2025
Submit your application and inspire others to join now!
