About the Awards
The 21 Under 21 Youth Awards Gala is a staple event organized by Youth Ottawa to recognize and celebrate young people. Rebranded from the Spirit of the Capital Awards, the event honours 21 local youth each year, 14-21 years of age who have made a significant contribution to their local or global community and who show initiative, enthusiasm, and leadership.
This year’s event will take place at the Museum of History on November 10th, 2026 from 5pm-10pm. The event features a mocktail hour, photo booth areas, awards presentations, youth performances, multimedia displays showcasing the work of our city’s young people, and more!
About the Awards
The 21 Under 21 Youth Awards Gala is a staple event organized by Youth Ottawa to recognize and celebrate young people. Rebranded from the Spirit of the Capital Awards, the event honours 21 local youth each year, 14-21 years of age who have made a significant contribution to their local or global community and who show initiative, enthusiasm, and leadership.
This year’s event will take place at the Museum of History on November 10th, 2026 from 5pm-10pm. The event features a mocktail hour, photo booth areas, awards presentations, youth performances, multimedia displays showcasing the work of our city’s young people, and more!
Nominate a Youth for the 21 Under 21 Awards
NOMINATIONS PERIOD: February 2026 – June 2026
We welcome nominations that highlight a diverse range of accomplishments and community involvement. Whether a nominee has demonstrated strengths in academic achievement, community service, leadership initiatives, arts, environmental advocacy, or any other significant endeavour, we want to hear their story.
Event Details
Mocktail Reception
Enjoy a refreshing mocktail as we kick off the evening, In keeping with our celebration of the achievements of our community's youth. This is a chance to mingle, network, and toast to the inspiring young leaders of our city with a variety of delicious, alcohol-free beverages.
Seated Dinner
Indulge in a delectable seated meal while enjoying the awards ceremony with municipal leaders, community members, friends, and family.
Awards Ceremony
The highlight of the evening, our Awards Ceremony, will honour and celebrate 21 exceptional young leaders who have made a significant impact in our community. Join us as we recognize their achievements and hear their inspiring stories. This moment is a tribute to their hard work, dedication, and the bright future ahead. Be prepared to be moved and inspired by the incredible talent and passion of our youth.
Meet the 2025 Recipients
Youth Ottawa is proud to celebrate the remarkable journeys of young individuals who excel across a wide range of fields, from academics and leadership to community service, arts, and environmental advocacy.
The 2025 cohort of honourees demonstrates the breadth and uniqueness of young people’s contributions across Ottawa.
See the Pictures
Relive the excitement of the night through the photos! For personal use of studio pictures, be sure to tag @OneTrueStudio to credit them on their work!
Sponsor the 2026 Awards
SPONSORSHIP & SALES PERIOD: JUNE 2026 – NOVEMBER 10, 2026
As a sponsor for 21 Under 21, your involvement signals a powerful message: that you believe in nurturing young leaders and building a future driven by passion, purpose, and progress. Your presence helps create the environment youth need to thrive—and connects you with other community builders equally invested in this vision.
Thank You to our Sponsors
"The Awards had a huge impact on my career, education and overall life. Through the support and network I was able to launch my community work to another level. And through the visibility and recognition I have received additional financial support and distinction. For instance, shortly after receiving this award I became one of only 20 McCall MacBain scholars ‘22 at McGill University. I feel none of this would have been possible without the visibility and support of the RBC Youth Award. I consider it to be a milestone in my journey to becoming an advocate, entrepreneur, and physician-researcher."
Alumni Stories
Hear from past spirit alumni! Alumni share what the awards meant to them and their work in the community.