KEKS Awards 2026
Nominate your candidates for
KEKS Awards 2026!
Help us highlight good examples, spread inspiration, and give recognition to those who are driving open youth work forward!
KEKS Awards is not a competition — it’s about acknowledging those who inspire and strengthen the entire sector. When we share stories about what works, it becomes easier for others to follow, and to dare to try new things.
Now YOU have the chance to nominate a colleague or an organisation that you believe deserves to be highlighted and recognized for their contributions!
KEKS Awards were established in 2025 in during our 20th anniversary and are presented during the KEKS Conference. All nominations will be evaluated by a jury consisting of representatives from KEKS member organisations. The jury makes its decisions solely based on the motivations submitted. Therefore, make sure your motivation is as clear and well‑reasoned as possible.
Nominate your candidates for the KEKS Awards 2026
Nominations close on March 20.
Organisation/Municipality of the Year
Awarded to an organisation or municipality that, with strong commitment, has contributed to developing and strengthening youth work locally and/or within KEKS.
European of the Year
Awarded to a person, a youth centre, a municipality, or a non‑governmental organisation (NGO) that has engaged in European cooperation in some way and, through this, broadened and/or developed its work and/or inspired others to engage in European cooperation.
Leader of the Year
Awarded to a person who has helped their organisation take a collective step forward in its development. This may be a manager or someone else who has driven progress within their area of responsibility (e.g., a youth centre, a municipality, or a specific field of work such as online or outdoor activities) in a way that others can learn from and be inspired by.
Youth Centre/service of the Year
Awarded to a youth centre or project that has taken significant steps forward and/or developed something that strengthens our collective ability to deliver high‑quality youth work.
Youth Worker of the Year
Awarded to a person who, through their commitment and positive attitude, has inspired others and supported their development.
Do you want to be part of the jury for the KEKS Awards 2026?
We are looking for jury members who work in a municipality/organisation that is a member of KEKS. As a jury member, you will review the nominations and help select the winners in each category. We aim to form a jury with broad expertise and diverse perspectives, ranging from operational roles to leadership and development positions.
The application deadline is March 15.