Smiltene Municipality Opens 2026 “Smiltene Municipality Young Person” Contest
Smiltene Municipality is accepting nominations until 18 November for an award honouring young people aged 13 to 25 for personal growth and contribution to local development. Winners will be honoured on 5 December.
The Smiltene Municipality authority in Vidzeme, Latvia, has announced its 2026 contest “Smiltene Municipality Young Person”. Nominations can be submitted until 18 November 2026. The contest aims to encourage the growth of local young people and their contribution to local development, as well as to recognise and motivate them to take part in public life.
Who can be nominated
Nominees must be aged 13 to 25 and either have their declared residence in Smiltene Municipality or study at one of its educational institutions.
Categories
Awards are given in eight categories:
- Young Person of the Year in Culture;
- Young Person of the Year in Sport;
- Young Person of the Year at School, ages 13–16;
- Young Person of the Year at School, age 17 and over;
- Young Person of the Year for a Parish;
- Young Person of the Year for the Municipality;
- Inspirer of the Year;
- Informal Youth Group of the Year.
The award recognises personal growth and contribution to the municipality through involvement in culture, sport, education, public or economic activity. It is intended for young people who set an example, take part in youth work and actively participate in public life.
How to apply
Applications are made through an electronic form. Any individual aged 13 or older may submit one, and young people can nominate themselves. Legal entities, including municipal institutions and local non-governmental organisations, may also submit nominations. The contest rules are available through the municipality's published information.
Award ceremony
The winners will be honoured at a ceremony on 5 December 2026 at the Smiltene Municipality Cultural Centre.
