The capital is once again searching for a worthy recipient of the coveted ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Award, with nominations for this year opening today (Monday 9 March).
Now in its 20th year, the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Award continues to recognise exceptional individuals whose achievements have not only brought distinction to the city but have helped shape ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿’s future as a global capital of ideas, culture, innovation and compassion.
Since its inception in 2007, the Award has honoured individuals whose work has left a lasting legacy. From acclaimed artists and pioneering scientists to sporting heroes and social changemakers, each recipient has helped put ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ on the national and international map. Their handprints are permanently cast into the flagstones outside the City Chambers, a lasting tribute at the heart of the capital.
In 2025, the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Award was presented to Ali Bowden, the first Director of ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ UNESCO City of Literature who, whilst in her role, created a diverse and engaging range of projects and programmes to enhance our literary city and played a key role in connecting ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ with other literary cities around the world.
ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ has four weeks to nominate for the 2026 award, before a recipient is selected by the Civic Awards Committee.
The Lord Provost of the City of ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿, Robert Aldridge has urged individuals and businesses to nominate:
The ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Award gives us a chance to honour the individuals whose work and achievements continue to make ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ the extraordinary city we all know and love. I am continually inspired by the way ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿’s people support one another, and this award reflects that community spirit.
As we mark the 20th ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Award this is an opportunity to not only reflect on the outstanding individuals who have shaped our past but also to recognise those whose work is influencing our future. I encourage everyone to consider who inspires them, who goes above and beyond to make ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ stronger, fairer, more innovative and has made a difference to our city and please submit a nomination.
Nominations open today Monday 9 March and close at 12 noon on Friday 10 April 2026.
To find out more and submit nomination please visit our website.