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Embassy of Sweden Canberra, Australia

Local time 11:38 AM

Nominations Now Open for the Young Courage Award 2026

Australia and New Zealand join the Young Courage Award for the second year, honouring young people whose brave actions keep Raoul Wallenberg’s legacy alive for new generations.

At a time when our communities are reflecting deeply on unity, empathy, and the importance of standing up for what is right, recognising young Australians and New Zealanders who embody these values feels more important than ever.

If you know a young person whose courage has made a real difference in their school, community, or beyond, we invite you to nominate them for the 2026 Young Courage Award.

This international, non‑political award celebrates young people aged 13–20 who have demonstrated remarkable moral courage. Sometimes courage is quiet; sometimes it is bold. It can look like:

  • A voice that speaks up when others stay silent
  • A hand extended when someone needs it most
  • A young person choosing kindness, justice, or integrity, even when it is difficult

If someone comes to mind, we would love to hear their story.

How to Nominate

Nominating is simple. Please send:

  • The nominee’s name
  • Their country of location (Australia or New Zealand)
  • A short motivation (up to 1,000 characters)
  • Email submissions to: ambassaden.canberra-events@gov.se
  • Deadline: Tuesday 31 March 2026

Self‑nominations are welcome.

A Global Award Inspired by a Global Legacy

Organised by the Raoul Wallenberg Academy in partnership with the Swedish Institute and Sweden’s embassies, the Young Courage Award honours the spirit of Roul Wallenberg.

The Swedish Diplomat’s extraordinary bravery during the Second World War saved tens of thousands of Jews from the Holocaust and continue to demonstrate how one individual’s courage can change the course of history.

In 2013, Australia awarded Raoul Wallenberg honorary citizenship, the first time the nation had ever granted such an honour. Read more about this World War II hero by clicking here.

A Life-Changing Experience in Stockholm

Selected awardees will be invited to Stockholm for a fully funded multi‑day programme alongside fellow young changemakers from around the world. Participants will explore Wallenberg’s legacy, take part in workshops and site visits, and attend the official award ceremony on 27 August 2026, held in connection with Raoul Wallenberg Day.

This is a unique and inspiring opportunity for young Australians and New Zealanders to learn, grow, and be recognised on an international stage.

To learn more about the award and to discover the inspiring work of the 2025 Young Courage Award recipients from Australia and New Zealand, please visit: Meet the 2025 Young Courage Award winners from Australia and New Zealand! - Sweden Abroad  

This international, non‑political award celebrates young people aged 13–20 who have demonstrated remarkable moral courage.

Last updated 28 Jan 2026, 4.51 PM