Children making a positive difference in their families, schools and communities are being encouraged to step into the spotlight, as Vision Fiji launches the Fiji Children's Award 2026 to recognise young people whose selfless actions often go unnoticed.
The organisation is now calling for nominations for children aged between 6 and 17 who have shown outstanding achievements through helping others, contributing to their schools and communities, or overcoming difficult personal circumstances.
Speaking during the launch, Fiji Children's Award spokesperson Hosanna Kabakoro says the award reflects Vision Fiji's commitment to the wellbeing, development and recognition of children in Fiji.
She says the award is about recognising children who serve others selflessly and make positive contributions despite facing challenges in their own lives.
Kabakoro says in a world where negative stories often dominate headlines and social media, the Fiji Children's Award reminds people that there is still a lot of good among Fiji's young people.
The spokesperson emphasises that there are children across the country who lead by example, care for others, support their families and contribute to their schools and communities while demonstrating values that many adults can learn from.
Kabakoro says the importance of the award goes beyond simply celebrating achievements, as it also sends a message that children matter and that qualities such as compassion, resilience, responsibility and service should be recognised and encouraged.
Trustee for Vision Fiji Gazala Akbar says they hope to reach as many people as possible and ensure children doing wonderful work in communities receive recognition.
She says they are searching for stories of unsung heroes among children who are providing extraordinary service to their families or communities that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Three previous recipients and committee of the Fiji Children's Award, Hosanna Kabakoro, Nafitalai Qereiwasa and Malika Singh, also shared their journeys and spoke about how they were nominated through the work they carried out in their communities.
The Fiji Children's Award was first held on United Nations World Children's Day in 2010 and has continued as a biennial initiative recognising children who make a difference in society.
Nominations for the 2026 awards close on 31st August, while the award ceremony will be held on 20th November.
