BGRF Youth Change-Maker Awards Criteria

Bengali Youth Change-Maker Awards: Celebrating Talent, Spirit, and Leadership

Purpose

The purpose of this recognition program is to honour and celebrate young individuals within the Bengali community in UK who demonstrate exceptional talent, spiritual engagement, and the ability to act as change-makers. These young people are making significant contributions to their community and society, embodying the values of leadership, compassion, and cultural pride. By recognising these individuals, we aim to inspire others within the community to engage in meaningful action and foster a sense of pride in their Bengali heritage.

Criteria for Selection

1. Talent and Achievement

o Description: The individual should demonstrate significant talent in a particular field, such as academics, arts, sports, science, or any other area. This talent should be recognised through achievements, awards, or contributions that showcase their skills and dedication.

o Purpose: To highlight and reward young people who have excelled in their chosen fields and have brought pride to the Bengali community through their achievements.

2. Spiritual Engagement

o Description: The individual should actively engage in spiritual or religious practices, demonstrating a strong connection to their faith and cultural values. This could include participation in religious events, leading community prayers, or organising spiritual workshops.

o Purpose: To recognise individuals who embody the spiritual values of the Bengali community and contribute to maintaining and promoting these traditions among the youth.

3. Community Leadership

o Description: The individual should exhibit leadership qualities by taking on roles within the community that drive positive change. This could involve organising community events, leading social initiatives, or volunteering in community services that address local issues.

o Purpose: To identify and honour those who are not only leaders but also inspire others to take action and contribute to the betterment of their community.

4. Social Impact and Change-Making

o Description: The individual should be involved in activities that create a positive social impact, such as advocating for social justice, working on environmental causes, or supporting underprivileged groups. Their efforts should demonstrate a commitment to making a difference in their community or beyond.

o Purpose: To acknowledge those who actively work towards creating a better society and motivate others to join in their efforts.

5. Cultural Preservation and Promotion

o Description: The individual should contribute to the preservation and promotion of Bengali culture and heritage. This could involve participating in or organising cultural events, teaching Bengali language, or promoting traditional arts and crafts.

o Purpose: To ensure the continuity of Bengali culture in the diaspora and to celebrate those who work to keep the culture alive for future generations.

6. Resilience and Overcoming Adversity

o Description: The individual should have demonstrated resilience in the face of personal or communal challenges. This could include overcoming significant obstacles, such as health issues, family challenges, or societal barriers, while continuing to contribute positively to the community.

o Purpose: To recognise and celebrate the strength and perseverance of young people who continue to make a difference despite facing hardships.

Overall Considerations

• Age Group: Candidates must be between the ages of 12-25.
• Bengali Community Connection: Candidates must have a clear connection to the Bengali community in UK, either through heritage, cultural involvement, or family background.
• Children of Trustees are excluded in the selection process: The reason for excluding children of Trustees from the selection process for a youth community award is to maintain fairness, transparency, and impartiality. This policy helps to avoid any potential conflicts of interest or perceptions of favoritisms, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated solely on their merits and contributions to the community. By doing so, the integrity of the award is upheld, and the selection process remains equitable and credible for all participants.
• Nomination Process: Candidates can be nominated by community members, teachers, religious leaders, or through self-nomination, with supporting documentation or references to validate their contributions.

Selection Process

• Initial Screening: A committee will review all nominations to ensure they meet the basic criteria.
• Evaluation: Each nominee will be evaluated based on the strength of their contributions in the areas of talent, spiritual engagement, leadership, social impact, cultural promotion, and resilience.
• Final Selection: The committee will select the top candidates who best embody the qualities of a young change-maker, with consideration for the diversity of talents and contributions across different fields.

This recognition program will not only celebrate the achievements of young Bengali individuals but also serve as an inspiration for the entire community, encouraging a new generation of leaders and change-makers.

Categories of Awards