Medway Pride LGBTQIA+ Awards

Supported by The Glass Box Theatre and Mid-Kent College, Medway Pride CIC, Medway Oral History CIC. For award sponsor oppotunities contact Medway Pride CIC

Medway’s creative community — this is your moment!

The Medway Pride LGBTQIA+ Awards 2026 are calling out for musicians, singer‑songwriters, spoken‑word artists, poets and videographers who want to bring their talent, passion and pride to the stage.

This year’s awards will light up The Glass Box Theatre at Mid Kent College in Gillingham this June — and we’re keeping the celebration going with a Medway Pride Fringe Festival event in August, giving even more space for local voices to shine.

We’re looking for original work, pieces that celebrate, uplift or reflect the LGBTQIA+ Pride movement and/or Medway Pride. You can perform live or send us a recorded video. Medway Pride CIC will select performers for the awards night on Wednesday 17th June, and everyone who submits something will have the chance to take part in the Fringe event in August.

If you’ve got a song, a poem, a video, a piece of spoken word — or even just the spark of an idea — fill in this form and we’ll get in touch to chat about how you can be part of this year’s celebrations.

Nominate a candidate for an Award

Nominations are open until April 30th, Voteing will commence on May 1st Use the button below to place your nomination for the awards.

1. LGBTQIA+ Volunteer Award

This award recognises volunteers whose dedication, service, and personal commitment have made a meaningful and lasting contribution to LGBTQIA+ communities in Medway. It honours individuals who give their time generously and uphold values of inclusion, support, and collective wellbeing.

2. LGBTQIA+ and Ally Communities at Work Award

This award recognises employees or employers who actively advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workplace. It honours those who challenge discrimination, promote belonging, and use their professional influence to create safe, supportive environments where LGBTQIA+ people can thrive authentically.

3. LGBTQIA+ Friendly Business Award

This award honours a local business that demonstrates a sustained commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion. It recognises organisations that provide safe, welcoming spaces, uphold inclusive policies, display visible support, and contribute positively to equality and respect throughout the year.

4. LGBTQIA+ Ally Award

This award recognises individuals or organisations that demonstrate consistent, visible, and active allyship. It honours those who challenge prejudice, uplift LGBTQIA+ voices, and use their influence to support, empower, and advocate for the community with integrity and care.

5. LGBTQIA+ Friendly Charity Medway Intersectionality Award

This award recognises a charity that champions inclusion across intersecting identities. It honours organisations that address the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA+ people and demonstrate a strong commitment to equality, accessibility, and meaningful support for marginalised communities.

6. Lifetime Achievement Award

This award honours individuals who’s long‑standing dedication has significantly shaped LGBTQIA+ life in Medway. It recognises trailblazers and community champions who have contributed over many years, offering leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to positive change.

7. Medway Pride CIC Award

This award is presented to individuals who have made a notable contribution to improving the lives of LGBTQIA+ people in Medway. It recognises commitment, compassion, and meaningful action that strengthens community wellbeing and advances equality for all.