The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) has announced that nominations are open for the 2015 Unleashed Awards which recognise young Australians actioning social change in their communities.

There are six award categories (see below) and $1,000 cash to be won for each category. Entries close 28 August and all eligible young people are encouraged to apply.

Jan Owen, CEO of FYA, believes that young people are driven, innovative and capable of transforming the not-for-profit sector landscape.

“The Unleashed Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the best and brightest young people in Australia, give them the recognition they deserve and the opportunity to continue the fantastic work their doing leading change across the country,” she said.

The Awards are part of the Unleashed Festival, Australia’s leading social change festival specifically for young people, which will take place September 21 – 26 at Melbourne’s Federation Square.

This year’s six award categories are:

• Trailblazer Open to changemakers (individuals or groups) who are 29+, in recognition of their achievements.
• La Trobe Local legend Open to young people aged 13 – 26 working within their local community to create positive change.
• Jumpstart For those young people aged 13 – 26 who have the potential to scale their idea through digital, but just need a little jumpstart.
• Gamechanger Open to groups or individuals who are engaged in social or socially-minded business enterprise. This award focuses on innovation and enterprise skills.
• SBS Asia Connect An award for a young person aged 13 – 26 who is working to turbocharge our connection with the Asian region through volunteer, social enterprise or other not-for-profit work or projects.