Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture, Tourism and Youth, the Hon. Christian Santos GMD MP, presented the 2026 Youth Achievement Awards, which form part of Government’s commitment to recognising and honouring young people who demonstrate excellence, leadership and community spirit.

The Awards and presentation ceremony were organised by The Gibraltar Youth Service, on behalf of the Ministry of Youth. The Awards recognise the outstanding achievements, leadership and contributions of young people and organisations across Gibraltar.

Nominations were invited from the public and considered by a panel, who selected those they felt most deserved recognition. This year’s recipients included young people, youth leaders and organisations whose work has made a meaningful difference across a range of settings. The recipients attended the ceremony alongside family, supporters and members of the wider community to celebrate the positive impact of young people who inspire other through their kindness, dedication and service.

The Awards were presented as follows:

Chantal Lawless Pembroke and Liya Krystyna Mary Lowes for their contribution to the canoeing community, willingness to guide younger members and their commitment to developing into qualified young helpers.

Gabriella Garcia, Shyla Clarke and Aanniyah Robertson for their leadership, empathy, dedication, maturity and support of younger dancers within Yalta’s Dance Studio.

Jessie Chipol-Nunez for his outstanding contribution to both school and community life, and for his advocacy for younger students and strong sense of service.

Aaron Gines, Ebony Celecia, Sarah Wilkie, Kieran Richardson Fa, Calum Victor, Sami Santiago, Logan McCarthy, Mohamed Amin Khabbat, Vera Estella, Lewis Jarman and Deiliam Moreno Ruiz – Youth Service Young Leaders who have taken on leadership and helper roles within youth club settings and for mentoring and supporting Youth Workers with empathy, care and resilience. 

Childline Gibraltar Appropriate Adult Service for over the past five years providing exceptional support, compassionate advocacy and ensuring young people do not face detention alone.

Minister Santos said: “It is an honour to recognise deserving young people and organisations serving young people. I am particularly glad to have introduced this award in recognition of their contribution to our community. These award recipients have gone above and beyond in their areas and have demonstrated inspirational leadership, empathy and commitment. It is extremely uplifting to see these young people thrive and excel as their successes will benefit them and our community. I am excited to see how these young people will continue to grow and develop in the future.” 

The Minister also thanked members of the public for submitting nominations and highlighted the importance of community participation in recognising and uplifting local talent. Attendees were reminded that achievement is measure by outcomes but also by the way individuals support one another, show kindness and contribute to our community.

For further information about the Youth Service and upcoming events, follow socials at youth.gi.