Douglas City Council is calling on Islanders to help uncover the people who make the city a great place to live.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Community Awards, which recognise the individuals who quietly go above and beyond for others, often without seeking recognition for their efforts.
The awards celebrate two special categories: Community Champion, which recognises a Douglas resident who has made a significant difference through their contribution to the community, and Young Hero, which honours a young person aged 15 or under who has made an outstanding impact on the lives of others.
Now entering its fifth year, the awards have shone a spotlight on some remarkable people whose kindness, commitment and community spirit have touched the lives of people across the city.
Mayor of Douglas, Councillor Steven Crellin J.P., is encouraging people to take a few moments to nominate someone they believe deserves recognition.
“One of the things that makes Douglas such a special place is the number of people who quietly give their time, energy and compassion to help others.
“Whether it’s supporting a local charity, coaching a sports team, looking out for neighbours, fundraising for a cause close to their heart, or simply going above and beyond to make a difference, there are countless people making our community stronger every day.
“The Community Awards are about recognising the people who make Douglas. They are the volunteers, mentors, fundraisers, carers and everyday community champions who help others without expecting anything in return.
“If someone has inspired you, supported your community or made a real difference to the lives of others, I would encourage you to nominate them. What may seem like an ordinary act of kindness can have an extraordinary impact on someone else’s life.”
Among last year’s winners was Young Hero recipient Logan Connor, who is encouraging others
to put forward someone deserving this year.
He said: “I was really happy when I found out I’d won. It was a big surprise and it made me feel proud. There are lots of people who do kind things for others and don’t expect anything back. Sometimes it’s the little things that can make a big difference to someone’s day.
“If you know someone who is always helping people, being kind or doing something good for the community, I think you should nominate them. It’s nice for people to know that what they do matters and that people appreciate it.”
The Process
The Community Awards celebrate the people who make Douglas a stronger, kinder and more connected community.
Over the years, nominations have highlighted individuals who have dedicated countless hours to helping others, giving their time, energy and compassion to improve the lives of those around them. Others have been recognised for bringing together teams of volunteers and supporters, driven by a determination to create positive change and support those in need.
Some nominees are the people everyone turns to in difficult times; always ready with a helping hand, a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, or practical support when it is needed most. Every
story is different, but each nominee shares one thing in common: their actions make a meaningful difference to the lives of others and help make Douglas a better place to live.
In the coming weeks, Douglas City Council will also be sharing stories from previous winners and nominees, highlighting the impact they have made within the community and encouraging more people to recognise local heroes through the awards.
A panel chaired by the Mayor will consider all nominations before selecting the winners, who will be honoured at a special awards presentation later this year. Nominees must live in Douglas, although nominations can be submitted by anyone living on the Isle of Man.
Nomination forms can be completed online at www.douglas.gov.im/community-awards-scheme or obtained by emailing democraticservices@douglas.gov.im
The closing date for nominations is Saturday, 31st October, 2026.
