What do we celebrate?
We celebrate campaigns drawn from across civil society, led by one or many, that lead to change that benefits all.
We celebrate individuals or campaign groups that take on big organisations and challenge vested power.
We celebrate the opportunity to learn which campaigns are winning and why.
Our interest is in finding those who have made change happen – most effectively, creatively, and courageously.
That change might be in law or policy, it might be in attitudes, social norms or behaviour, it could be in how services are provided, or in the protection of a service or asset. A campaign could be aimed at righting a wrong or holding a body to account.
What all nominees have in common is the determination to secure a specific change that will make things better.
SMK National Campaigner Awards 2026 shortlist coming soon!
Nominations are now closed but you can still check out the 10 fantastic award categories if considering a nomination for next year’s awards.
Find out about this year’s Awards criteria and categories.
Our criteria and judging process
The Awards recognise individuals and campaigns that have delivered meaningful social change for the public benefit. Our Awards exist to celebrate campaigning that is effective, responsible, and rooted in fairness, dignity, and respect.
Who are this year's sponsors and judges?
SMK invites a diverse and experienced group of people from across civil society to judge the Awards, awards that couldn’t happen without the support of our amazing sponsors.
Watch the #WeAreChangemakers film we launched at last year’s SMK National Campaigner Awards
Can you sponsor the awards?
We believe now more than ever that our work must protect the space for campaigner’s voices in civil society – with your support, we can continue to do this.
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