Young people from across Aotearoa are using their voices to challenge racism and promote unity, with this year’s Race Unity Speech Awards highlighting powerful visions for a more inclusive future.
The 2026 national finals were held at Ngā Kete Wānanga Marae in Ōtara, bringing together senior secondary school students from around the country to share speeches focused on racial harmony, understanding and social cohesion.
This year’s theme, Listening to Understand – Whakarongo kia mārama, encouraged students to reflect on how deeper listening and empathy can help address racism and division within society.
Hastings Boys’ High School student Amanjot Singh was named the national champion for 2026, receiving the New Zealand Police National Champion’s Award.
Organisers say the awards continue to provide an important platform for rangatahi to speak openly about identity, prejudice, belonging and the future they want to help create in Aotearoa.
Students delivered speeches in both English and te reo Māori, with awards recognising excellence in advocacy, impact and the use of te reo Māori.
The Race Unity Speech Awards were established by the New Zealand Bahá’í Community in 2001 and have grown into a nationwide programme involving hundreds of students each year.
Organisers say the kaupapa behind the awards is grounded in the belief that meaningful dialogue, mutual respect and understanding are essential to building stronger communities and reducing racial prejudice.
This year’s speeches addressed issues including discrimination, cultural identity, belonging, leadership and the importance of creating spaces where different communities feel heard and valued.
Many participants also spoke about the role rangatahi can play in shaping a more inclusive future by challenging stereotypes and standing against racism in schools, workplaces and wider society.
The awards come at a time when conversations around race relations, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and social cohesion remain central issues across Aotearoa.
Organisers say the powerful messages delivered by students this year show many young people are committed to building a future grounded in empathy, unity and respect for diversity.
