Starting in 2026, three exceptional recipients will be recognised each year — one representing each of the IB’s global regions: Asia-Pacific (APAC), the Americas, and Africa, Europe and the Middle East (EMEA).
This new global initiative marks the IB’s first formal award programme honouring outstanding individuals across its worldwide community who have demonstrated excellence and made a significant impact in advancing the IB’s mission. IB launched this inaugural Community Inspiration Award during the IB Global Conference in The Hague, Netherlands.
Nominations for the 2026 awards are now open until 14 November 2025. Eligible nominees include individuals from the IB community of candidates and World Schools – such as students, alumni, parents, educators, and administrators – or anyone with direct ties to an IB school, association, network or system.
Nominees will be evaluated by a judging committee based on four criteria that reflect the spirit of the IB:
- Use of Voice – How the nominee uses their voice effectively – whether locally, nationally, or globally – to support the IB’s mission and advocate for “more IB”.
- Impact – How the nominee’s role and contributions demonstrate sustained impact reflective of IB community values.
- Innovation – How the nominee takes risks and overcomes obstacles to drive innovation, in line with the IB learner profile.
- Shared Humanity – How the nominee exemplifies the qualities of being human, such as care, compassion and open-mindedness.
Award recipients will be honoured at IB Global Conferences within their respective regions. The Asia-Pacific awardee will be announced at the Asia-Pacific IB Global Conference in March 2026.
For more information about the award and nomination process, please visit the official IB website.
