2026 Human Rights Awards
As part of the PEI Human Rights Commission's 50th Anniversary and International Human Rights Day celebration, Human Rights Awards will be presented on December 10, 2026.
PEI Human Rights Award
The PEI Human Rights Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization whose work has made a meaningful contribution to advancing human rights, accessibility, inclusion, dignity, equality, and belonging in Prince Edward Island.
The award celebrates contributions that strengthen communities, address barriers to participation, increase awareness of human rights, and create positive change for Islanders.
Samuel Mackenzie Lowe Youth Leadership Award
The Samuel Mackenzie Lowe Youth Leadership Award recognizes a young Islander (ages 16-30) whose leadership and commitment to community reflect Sam's values of compassion, courage, and belonging.
About Sam
Sam grew up in Prince Edward Island and graduated from Grace Christian School in Charlottetown in 2021. Known for his kindness, generosity, and ability to connect with others, Sam was actively involved in sports, volunteerism, cultural events, and multicultural initiatives. He believed deeply in creating opportunities for others and building communities where everyone felt welcomed and valued.
His leadership was recognized nationally as a Loran Scholar and later through his work at Queen's University, where he co-founded the Black Undergraduate Coalition to create connection, mentorship, and support for Black students across Canada.
Although Sam's impact extended far beyond Prince Edward Island, he remained deeply connected to the communities that helped shape him. Following his passing, many remembered not only what he accomplished, but also the kindness, integrity, curiosity, and compassion that defined who he was.
This award honours Sam's legacy by recognizing young Islanders who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to creating communities where everyone feels they belong.
Eligibility
Nominees must:
- Be nominated by another person. Self-nominations will not be accepted.
- Demonstrate a commitment to advancing human rights, accessibility, inclusion, equity, dignity, equality, or belonging through leadership, advocacy, education, service, mentorship, volunteerism, or community involvement.
- Be a resident of Prince Edward Island, or demonstrate significant ties and meaningful contributions to Prince Edward Island communities.
Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status is not required for nomination or receipt of either award.
Additional Eligibility for the Samuel Mackenzie Lowe Youth Leadership Award
Nominees for the Samuel Mackenzie Lowe Youth Leadership Award must be between the ages of 16 and 30 at the time of nomination.
Selection Considerations
Nominees may be recognized for contributions such as:
- Advancing human rights and equality.
- Addressing barriers, discrimination, or exclusion.
- Promoting inclusion, accessibility, dignity, and belonging.
- Building understanding and connection across communities.
- Educating others and raising awareness of human rights.
- Demonstrating leadership that creates positive change.
- Supporting, mentoring, or empowering others.
- Strengthening communities through service, collaboration, or advocacy.
Nominees do not need to demonstrate every consideration to be eligible. The selection committee will consider each nominee's overall contributions, impact, and commitment to creating positive change.
Recognition
Recipients will be honoured during the PEI Human Rights Day and 50th Anniversary Celebration on December 10, 2026, 6 p.m., Charlottetown Learning Centre.
Each recipient will receive a commemorative award recognizing their contributions to advancing human rights and strengthening communities in Prince Edward Island.
Both awards are honorary recognitions and do not include a monetary award.
How to Nominate
Fill out the form bellow and send it to contact@peihumanrights.ca
Formulaire en français : bientôt disponible
Nomination Deadline: November 20, 2026, 4 p.m.
For assistance with the nomination process or to request information in an alternate or accessible format, contact contact@peihumanrights.ca or 902-368-4703.