Today, Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT) are proud to announce the shortlist for the Friends, Families and Travellers Awards 2026!
The awards celebrate inspiring individuals from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities who have made a special contribution to wider society and their own communities.
It’s never easy putting together a shortlist – we were spoilt for choice with the amount of passionate and inspiring nominations to choose from. Every person and project nominated has worked hard to better their own lives and the lives of those around them. We continue to be proud of each and every one of you!
In no particular order, here are the shortlisted people and projects for each of the six awards:
Inspirational Young Person Award
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- Vlad Balaz
- Star Smith
- Lila Grace McShane
Arts, Culture and Heritage Award
- Write into Culture
- Jackie McShane
- Percy Henderson
Sporting Excellence Award
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- Les Stevens
- Konnie Grace
- Andy Lee
The Education Award
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- Charlotte James
- Spyros Themelis
- Janna Elliot
Inspiring Project Award
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- Bradford Women’s Group
- Bernie Corcoran
- Kushti Bok
Alexander Award for Lifetime Achievement
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- Maggie Bendell Smith
- Betty Gorman
- Janna Elliot
Congratulations to you all and good luck!
The awards will be held on the 22nd April 2026 at South East Dance Space, in Brighton.
We look forward to welcoming you for an evening dedicated to the hard work of these projects and individuals. Winners will be announced at the ceremony.
The winners from the FFT Awards 2024 can be seen here.
Join us in wishing all nominees the best of luck!
