Voting has opened for the Yachting Journalists’ Association (YJA) Young Journalist of the Year Award 2026, supported by Henri-Lloyd.
The three nominees on the shortlist reflect the diversity within marine media, and their submissions include magazine articles, social media posts and video and website stories
Launched by the YJA in 2021, the award aims to encourage aspiring journalists to consider a career in the marine sector. It has since been expanded and is now open to anyone aged 30 or under who wants to work or who already works within the industry.
The shortlisted nominees for the 2026 award are:
- Amelie Ballantyne download Amelie’s submission here
- Viola Devoti download Viola’s submission here
- Loreto Rodriguez download Loreto’s submission here
Each entrant has demonstrated skill and creativity in telling either their own stories or reporting on the wider sailing community.
YJA members now have the opportunity to vote for the young journalist whom they believe has made the most significant contribution to the field in 2026.
The YJA Young Journalist of the Year Award 2026 is supported by Henri-Lloyd
The voting process is simple. To view the submissions and cast your vote, please visit the YJA website here. Voting will remain open until 23:59 on Friday, 11th September, and the winner will be announced Friday, 18 September, on The Boating Stage at the Southampton International Boat Show.
Chair Katy Stickland: “As always, there were strong entries this year and narrowing them down to a shortlist was difficult,with nominees showing how diverse marine media has now become and YJA members will now make the final decision. I would also like to thank Henri-Lloyd for their commitment and continuing support for the award which encourages and rewards upcoming talent in marine media, writing, photography, and digital content.”