About the Award
In an age of mass information and misinformation, the role of journalists is more important than ever. Our societies rely on the core values of journalism - truthfulness and objectivity - to stay informed and shape opinions.
One Young World believes that the next generation of young journalists are paramount to creating powerful and meaningful change, providing the essential means to ensure freedom of speech and defence of rights are justly upheld in all regions worldwide.
The One Young World Journalist of the Year Award was created in 2020 to identify and promote some of the world's most impactful journalists changing how stories are reported and having a positive global impact.
We are delighted to launch our annual Journalist of the Year Award again for 2026.
Applications and nominations for the Journalist of the Year Award 2026 are now closed.
The Lyra Mckee Award for Bravery
Lyra McKee was a courageous Northern Irish journalist whose life was tragically cut short in 2019. Established in 2023, the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery pays tribute to her legacy and celebrates young leaders who exhibit extraordinary courage in their pursuit of positive change. Each year, one Journalist of the Year winner is awarded the Lyra McKee Award for Bravery.
Meet the Judges
The expert judging panel has been invited by One Young World to choose three winners who have created meaningful global impact through exceptionally crafted reporting and who are passionate about the rights to freedom of thought, expression and speech.
Ilia Calderón
James Chau
James Chau
President of the China-United States Exchange Foundation and World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador
Nilesh Christopher
Shiori Ito
Magalie Laguerre Wilkinson
Magalie Laguerre Wilkinson
Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Journalist, CEO and Founder, MagCap Media LLC
