Awards | ACSIS

BACKGROUND

The ACSIS Sustainability Awards is an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate young individuals across Africa and the Caribbean who are making significant contributions towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). These awards aim to highlight the efforts of young people who are running innovative projects and activities that address critical global challenges, thereby inspiring others to engage in sustainable development practices.

The awards are structured to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and recognition of diverse contributions towards sustainable development. The award categories, criteria, and nomination process have been meticulously designed to identify outstanding young leaders and their impactful initiatives.

ELIGIBILITY

The award targets young people aged 18-35 years. Citizens of all countries within Africa and the Caribbean are eligible to participate.

NOMINATION PROCESS

Nominations can be submitted by individuals or organizations at the bottom of this page. Each nomination must include:

- Subject must include the Award Category followed by the nominee Name (i.e. POLICY ACTIVIST AWARD – Kehinde Odanye)
- A well written description of the project or activity (a minimum of 300 words)
- Social Media Handle(s), Contact Number & Email.
- Evidence of Impact (i.e. Reports, Testimonials, Data)
- Supporting Documents (i.e. Photographs, Videos)

Screening & Evaluation

The award committee will conduct an initial screening to ensure all nominations meet the eligibility criteria and are complete. A panel of judges, consisting of experts in sustainable development, will then evaluate the nominations based on the predefined criteria.

- Impact: The tangible outcomes and measurable impact of the project or activity.
- Innovation: The originality and creativity in addressing sustainable development challenges.
- Sustainability: The long-term viability and sustainability of the project.
- Scalability: The potential for the project to be replicated or scaled up.
- Alignment with UN SDGs: The degree to which the project aligns with and contributes to one or more UN SDGs.
- Community Engagement: The level of involvement and benefit to the local community.

Shortlisted finalists will be selected and notified. They may be required to provide additional information or participate in interviews.

Announcement of Winners

The winners will be announced at a dedicated award ceremony, which will be publicized widely. Benefits include:

- Public display of winners information at the UK House of Lords
- Monetary / Honorarium for selected winners in both continents
- Advertisement nominees works in the media houses in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean.
- Connection and special recommendations to high level gatherings and opportunities.

AWARD CATEGORIES

Young Hero of the Year

This prestigious award recognizes an exceptional young leader whose overall efforts and achievements in sustainable development stand out among their peers. The recipient exemplifies outstanding dedication, leadership, and impact across multiple areas of the SDGs.

Outstanding Climate Change Leader Award

This award recognizes a young leader who has made significant contributions to combating climate change. It celebrates actions and initiatives that mitigate climate impacts, promote resilience, and raise awareness about the importance of addressing climate change.

Policy Activist Award

This award acknowledges young individuals who have actively engaged in policy advocacy and reform. It highlights efforts to influence and shape policies that promote sustainable development and address critical social, economic, and environmental issues.

Girl Child Advocate Award

This category recognizes individuals who have made outstanding efforts to advocate for the rights and well-being of the girl child. The award celebrates initiatives that promote education, health, safety, and empowerment of girls.

Most Innovative Project Award

This award celebrates the most creative and ground-breaking project aimed at advancing sustainable development. The award recognizes innovation in approach, technology, or methodology that seeks to provides novel solutions to pressing challenges.

Young Leader in Environment Award

This award honours individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in environmental conservation and sustainability. The award celebrates projects that protect natural resources, promote biodiversity, and foster environmental stewardship.

Disability Rights Champion Award

This award highlights the achievements of young individuals who advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. It recognizes efforts to eliminate barriers, promote accessibility, and ensure equal opportunities for all.

Outstanding Young Leader in Renewable Energy Award

This award acknowledges young individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the field of renewable energy. The award recognizes innovative projects and initiatives that promote the adoption and use of renewable energy sources, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

Best Volunteer Award

This award honours a young person who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and effort as a volunteer. It acknowledges the significant contributions made through voluntary service, positively impacting communities and advancing the SDGs.

Excellent Impact in Agriculture Award

This award honours young leaders who have made significant impacts in the field of agriculture. It celebrates initiatives that promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of farming communities.