Applications are now open for the Shomotay Tarunno Media Award 2026, a national initiative recognising responsible media practices, human dignity and positive social change through gender-sensitive journalism and creative content.

The award is jointly organised by the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB), Plan International Bangladesh and JAAGO Foundation Trust, with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, according to a press release.

Building on the success of the previous media award organised under the Shomotay Tarunno: Youth for Equality project, this year’s initiative is being held on a broader scale to recognise gender-sensitive and socially responsible journalism and creative content.

Awards will be presented across eight categories, including local and national newspaper reporting, television reporting, online news, local and national entertainment reporting, drama, and advertising covering TVCs, OVCs and social media.

The award aims to encourage media and creative industries to portray women, men, youth, persons with disabilities and Indigenous Peoples in ways that uphold dignity, reflect diversity and promote equal representation.

It will also recognise journalists, media professionals and content creators whose work contributes to gender equality, human dignity and positive social change.

Journalists, media professionals, producers and creative practitioners are invited to submit eligible works published or broadcast between 1 July 2025 and 31 July 2026, in accordance with the application guidelines.

The organisers said media plays a significant role in shaping public attitudes and social values. The initiative therefore seeks to encourage responsible language, respectful representation and non-discriminatory perspectives on gender across news, entertainment and advertising.

The application deadline is 10 September 2026. Detailed eligibility criteria, submission guidelines and other relevant information are available on the award website.

Details and applications are available at shomotaytarunno.com.