youth employability awards

2026

Each year, we hold this special event to highlight individuals and organisations across the network who have been particularly extraordinary in their efforts to help young people into work. We also shine a light on some of the incredible young people who are overcoming barriers to work and reminding us of the true impact of our efforts. We hope it will serve as a fun and inspiring evening to celebrate all that has been achieved in our 13th year.

Please note: 

  • The Youth Employability Awards is an event for people aged 18 and over only.
  • For all DWP nominations, please follow DWP internal process. 

Getting Nominated

Please review the categories below, click through and fill out the nomination forms for each category you choose.  Please note our nominations deadline is Thursday 19 February 2026.

Award Categories 

Breakthrough Star

This award recognises a young person demonstrating remarkable growth and future potential after completing a youth employability programme in the last 12 months.

Nominate

Young Trailblazer

This award recognises a young person, previously or currently NEET who has overcome significant barriers to employment and thrived through their experience.

Nominate

Rising Star

This award honors a young person who completed a youth employability program, showing growth and thriving in their workplace and early career.

Nominate

Mentor of the Year

This award honours a mentor who has shown exceptional dedication, empowering young people with care, guidance and inspiration.

Nominate

Partner of the Year

This award honours a charity, youth engagement, or training partner for impactful outreach, support, and helping young people and employers succeed together.

Nominate

Employer of the Year

This award honours a Movement to Work organisation that has driven positive change, supporting young people with meaningful pathways into the workforce.

Nominate

Best Newcomer – Employer

This award recognises employers who have recently become affiliated with Movement to Work, and have demonstrated a strong commitment to the organisation’s aims and objectives.

Nominate

Best Newcomer – Partner

This award recognises partners who have recently become affiliated with Movement to Work, and have demonstrated a strong commitment to the organisation’s aims and objectives.

Nominate

Outstanding Contribution to Young People

This award honours an individual in the Movement to Work network who has greatly supported young people, either directly or through their organisation.

Nominate

Nominations are now open and all entries must be submitted by Thursday 19th February 2026.

A huge thanks to the team at the Youth Futures Foundation, the What Works Centre for Youth Employment, who have helped refine the criteria for this year’s nominations. Their guidance has ensured we focus on the activities and behaviours that make the greatest difference for young people.

To learn more about Youth Futures Foundation and benefit from their extensive research on youth employment topics, please visit: https://youthfuturesfoundation.org

Sponsor an award

We’re also inviting organisations to sponsor an award, joining 350+ leaders for a night of celebration and impact. Sponsors receive a VIP table, event branding, professional photography, and the opportunity to present an award on stage.

Have a look at the sponsorship pack here.

What happens next?

Movement to Work will compile a shortlist which will be judged by our youth ambassadors and trusted partners in March. If you are successful at this stage you will be notified, with final winners announced at the Movement to Work Youth Employability Awards on Tuesday 5th May 2026. 

Need some inspiration? Check out what our previous award winners had to say here

For more information about the awards, please email us on events@movementtowork.com

GOOD LUCK AND SEE YOU THERE!