2026 Award Categories

1. Community Leader of the Year
Description:
This award honours an individual whose sustained leadership has united, protected, and transformed LGBTQIAPN+ communities. Their dedication advances inclusivity and equity, creating safer and stronger environments where diverse queer identities are celebrated and supported.

Why it exists:
To recognise those whose vision and commitment have created meaningful social change and strengthened community resilience over time.

Eligibility:
Individuals with demonstrated leadership impacting LGBTQIAPN+ lives over multiple year.
Contributions in advocacy, community building, education, or related fields.
Evident positive, measurable outcomes.

2. Grassroots Champion
Description:
For changemakers working quietly or outside the spotlight, making a tangible difference by building equity, safety, or visibility at a local level. This award celebrates those whose persistent efforts create real community impact without seeking public recognition.

Why it exists:
To acknowledge the vital, often unseen contributions that form the foundation of community wellbeing and progress.

Eligibility:
Individuals or small groups working locally or informally.
Does not require official roles or public profile.
Demonstrated positive impact on community safety, equity, or visibility.

3. Volunteer of the Year
Description:
Celebrates the generosity of individuals whose time and care have been essential to creating inclusive community events and spaces. Their dedication is a cornerstone of community life and access.

Why it exists:
To uplift those who selflessly support the community through hands-on contributions, often behind the scenes.

Eligibility:
Open to those volunteering regularly in LGBTQIAPN+ spaces, events, or organisations.
Any role is eligible, from event support to mentoring or admin.
Must show consistent commitment.

4. Performer or Artist of the Year
Description:
Honours creative excellence in drag, music, dance, visual art, writing, or other forms that uplift and celebrate queer stories and identities.

Why it exists:
To highlight and amplify artistic voices that inspire pride, challenge norms, and enrich queer culture.

Eligibility:
Open to LGBTQIAPN+ artists or allies who have actively contributed in the last 12 months.
Impact shown through audience engagement, cultural influence, or community recognition.

5. Storyteller or Media Maker of the Year
Description:
Recognises podcasters, journalists, filmmakers, digital creators, and media makers who share LGBTQIAPN+ experiences with authenticity and depth, educating and connecting communities through storytelling.

Why it exists:
To celebrate narrative power that fosters understanding, visibility, and empowerment for queer people.

Eligibility:

Individuals or teams producing LGBTQIAPN+ centred media released within the last year.
Accessible and relevant content for LGBTQIAPN+ audiences.

6. Regional Spotlight Award
Description:
Honours a champion based in regional Victoria who uplifts LGBTQIAPN+ inclusion, safety, and celebration beyond metropolitan areas, helping create vibrant, visible local communities.

Why it exists:
To spotlight and support vital leadership and impact outside urban centres, fostering statewide connection and equity.

Eligibility:
Nominees must primarily live or work outside Melbourne metro.
Individual or organisation with demonstrated regional impact on queer inclusion and safety.

7. First Nations LGBTQIAPN+ Voice
Description:
Celebrates an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person whose advocacy, culture, education, or leadership empowers LGBTQIAPN+ communities and amplifies First Nations queer voices.

Why it exists:
To honour the unique contributions and perspectives of First Nations LGBTQIAPN+ people in strengthening culture and community.

Eligibility:

Nominee identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
Work has positively influenced queer communities or visibility.

8. Inclusive Organisation or Initiative of the Year
Description:
Recognises businesses, groups, or collectives actively creating safer and more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIAPN+ people through policy, programming, and culture.

Why it exists:
To encourage and showcase organisational commitment to equity and community wellbeing.

Eligibility:

Open to any organisation with demonstrable LGBTQIAPN+ inclusive practices.
Must show measurable community engagement or impact.

9. Special Recognition Award – People’s Choice
Description:
The community’s favourite award, nominated and voted on by the public, celebrating those who may not fit conventional categories but whose impact is deeply felt.

Why it exists:
To honour the diverse ways people contribute to community strength and spirit beyond traditional labels.

Eligibility:
Open to individuals or groups with positive community impact.
Nominated and voted on by community members.

10. Euphoria Social Family Award
Description:
Celebrates the volunteers, ambassadors, performers, board members, and extended family who tirelessly bring Euphoria Social’s events and vision to life, forming the heart and soul of the organisation.

Why it exists:
To honour those whose passion and dedication fuel community connection and growth behind the scenes.

Eligibility:
Open to those consistently supporting Euphoria Social’s mission and activities.
Excludes founders T and Emma in recognition of their leadership roles.