FAQs
Learn more about the award's mission, eligibility criteria, application process, and how you can support this global initiative to empower young change-makers.
General Information
What is the King Hamad Award for Youth Empowerment?
The King Hamad Award recognizes and supports young individuals and organizations globally who are actively contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Who founded the King Hamad Award?
The award was established under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
What are the objectives of the award?
The objectives are to highlight the importance of empowering youth, inspire actionable change, and encourage initiatives that enable genuine youth engagement for sustainable development.
Who can apply for the King Hamad Award?
Young individuals, youth groups, and institutions that have made significant contributions to the community and SDG efforts are eligible to apply.
How can I apply for the award?
Applications can be submitted through the official website where you’ll find an application form to fill out along with instructions for submission.
What is the deadline to apply for the award?
The application deadline varies each year. Please check the website for this year’s specific deadline.
Can international applicants apply for the award?
Yes, the award is open to applicants from all over the world.
What are the main categories of the award?
The award has two main categories: Youth Action and Youth Enablers.
Can I apply in multiple categories?
Applicants are advised to apply in the category that best fits their achievements and contributions.
Are there any age restrictions for applicants?
Yes, applicants should be between the ages of 18 and 35 at the time of application.
Application Process
Is there a fee to submit an application for the award?
No, submission is free for all applicants.
How should I submit my application for the award?
All applications must be submitted through the official online platform of the King Hamad Award.
In what language should applications be submitted?
All applications must be submitted in English.
How are submissions evaluated for the King Hamad Award?
Submissions are evaluated in three stages by different panels, including pre-vetting, initial evaluation by UN experts, and final evaluation by prominent public figures.
What happens if my application does not meet the required criteria in Stage 1?
If the criteria are not met, the application will be disqualified.
How is fairness ensured in the evaluation process?
Each submission is evaluated by two jurors to ensure objectivity, with the final score being an average of both scores.
Are the identities of the applicants disclosed to the jurors during evaluation?
No, the evaluation process in stages 2 and 3 is blinded to keep the jurors unaware of the applicants’ identities.
Criteria and Eligibility
What criteria are used to evaluate the applications?
Applications are evaluated based on innovation, impact, scalability, and the ability to inspire others.
Do I need to have completed my project to apply?
While completed projects are preferred, ongoing projects with demonstrable impact are also eligible.
Is there a fee to apply for the award?
No, there is no application fee for the King Hamad Award.
Award Benefits
What do winners receive?
Winners receive a trophy, a certificate, and potential funding opportunities to expand their projects.
How many winners are selected each year?
The number of winners varies each year depending on the quality and impact of the applications received.
What is the monetary value of the King Hamad Award?
USD 20,000 for winners in the Youth Action category and USD 25,000 for non-profits in the Youth Enablers category.
What are the benefits for winners apart from the monetary award?
Winners are invited to the award ceremony with flights and accommodation covered by MYA.
Are winners required to participate in media activities?
Yes, winners must participate in media briefings and statements as required by MYA or the UNDP.
Confidentiality and Data Use
Who has access to the information I submit in my application?
The King Hamad Award team and jurors have access to application information, but it will not be shared publicly without applicant consent.
How will my application data be used?
Data may be used internally to inform technical or content changes to the application platform and criteria.
Do applicants consent to the use of their information for media purposes?
Yes, by submitting an application, applicants agree to the use of their information by MYA for media purposes.
What happens if fraudulent information is found in my application?
Including false information leads to immediate disqualification and, if discovered post-award, requires the return of awarded funds.
Changes During the Award Process
What happens if changes are made to the application during the award process?
Applicants will not be penalized for changes made by the King Hamad team to the application process.
What occurs if there is a change in the Juror Panel?
If a juror cannot fulfill their duties, a replacement will re-evaluate any submissions as necessary.
How often are the General Terms and Conditions revised?
Revisions are made as needed, with the latest revision date posted at the end of the document.
General Information
When are winners informed of their selection?
Winners are notified by email according to the timeline on the award website.
Can deadlines for the award application be changed?
Yes, the administration may change deadlines, and all applicants will be informed accordingly.
Where can I find the timeline for the award?
The timeline is available on the official website of the King Hamad Award.