RUSA 2026: Youth leading the way
The national semi-finals and finals of the Race Unity Speech Awards 2026 and its associated hui for discourse on race unity, were held last month (9-10 May), bringing together some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most thoughtful and inspiring young people to share their vision for a more united and harmonious society. Organised by the New Zealand Bahá’í Community since 2001, in collaboration with the New Zealand Police, the Human Rights Commission and many other partners, including the Hedi Moani Charitable Trust, the Awards and hui provide a platform for rangatahi to explore issues of race relations, justice, diversity, and social cohesion while offering constructive pathways forward.
This year's participants spoke on the theme ‘Listening to understand, Whakarongo kia mārama’ and each of those who came from around the country demonstrated remarkable courage, insight, and eloquence as they addressed the challenges and opportunities facing our increasingly diverse nation. The Race Unity Speech Awards continue to nurture a generation of young leaders committed to overcoming prejudice and contributing to a society founded on mutual respect, understanding, and the recognition of our common humanity.
For twenty-five years, the Race Unity Speech Awards have encouraged young people to consider how they can contribute to eliminating racial prejudice and fostering unity. The initiative continues to create spaces where diverse voices can be heard, friendships can be formed, and a shared vision for the future can emerge.
We warmly congratulate all participants, finalists, organisers, judges, teachers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this year's Awards. The insights and aspirations shared by these young people offer hope and encouragement as we continue to work towards a society characterised by justice, unity, and the celebration of diversity.
Watch the winning speech
National Champion Amanjot Singh (Hastings Boys' High School) delivers his award-winning speech, exploring how unconscious bias shapes our perceptions and challenging us to build a more united and inclusive society.
The 2026 National Champion was Amanjot Singh of Hastings Boys’ High School, who was recognised for his leadership in advancing the national conversation on race unity. Amanjot also received awards for Manaakitanga and Vision, highlighting the depth of his contribution to discussions about building a multicultural Aotearoa founded on Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Additional awards recognised excellence in areas such as te reo Māori and practical approaches to improving race relations.
Official photo gallery
A link to a selection of photographs from the National Finals is included in an official photo gallery, capturing some of the spirit, friendship, and thoughtful engagement that characterised the gathering. Race Relations Commissioner, Dr Melissa Derby, and Children’s Commissioner, Dr Claire Achmad, were among many notable individuals present. The gallery of official photographs from the 2026 Race Unity Speech Awards National Finals is available on the Race Unity Speech Awards website. The images capture many of the highlights of the weekend, including the speeches, award presentations, and the spirit of friendship and collaboration that characterised the gathering. We invite friends to browse the gallery and celebrate the achievements of the finalists and organisers who contributed to this inspiring event.
Feature photo: The outstanding recipients of the 2026 Race Unity Speech awards.
