Portsmouth Youth Awards 2026 celebrates city's young leaders and achievers
The achievements and contributions of young people across the city will be recognised at the Kings Theatre
Young people from across Portsmouth will take centre stage this week as the city prepares to celebrate its next generation of community leaders, creatives, sportspeople and changemakers.
Taking place on Tuesday (September 22) at the Kings Theatre, the Portsmouth Youth Awards 2026 will bring together families, community organisations, partners and supporters for an inspirational evening. The awards have been created by city charity URBOND to celebrate young people from all backgrounds and recognise the impact they are making within their communities.
From demonstrating resilience and leadership to excelling in education, sport, creativity and community involvement, the awards aim to showcase the many different ways young people make a positive contribution. The evening will feature live entertainment, special performances, award presentations and stories celebrating courage, determination and achievement.
Four of the awards have been open to a public vote: Community Award; Creativity Award; Sportsmanship Award and Student Recognition Award
‘We are proud to host the fourth edition of Portsmouth Youth Awards and celebrate the incredible achievements, resilience and potential of young people across our city,’ said Ousmane Drame, Chief Executive Officer of URBOND.
‘Every day, we see young people overcoming challenges, making positive contributions to their communities and inspiring those around them. These awards provide an important opportunity to recognise their success and shine a spotlight on the individuals, organisations and supporters who help create opportunities for young people to thrive.
‘At URBOND, we believe every young person deserves the chance to fulfil their potential and we are honoured to bring the community together to celebrate their achievements.’
The event comes as URBOND and its partners continue to expand their youth development work across Portsmouth, providing young people with opportunities through engagement, education and employability programmes.
Thousands of young people participate in positive activities delivered by youth organisations across the city each week, creating safe and supportive environments where they can build confidence, develop new skills and access meaningful opportunities, said Ousmane. The Portsmouth Youth Awards provides an opportunity to bring this work together across the city, celebrating the achievements, talents and successes of young people.
The Portsmouth Youth Awards 2026 will take place from 5pm–9pm.