Code of
Conduct
A Living Covenant for a Bold, Inclusive, and Responsible Community
A Living Covenant for a Bold, Inclusive, and Responsible Community
Our global ecosystem — participants, catalysts, alumni, mentors, staff, partners, donors, jury members, award nominees, volunteers, and guests — reflects diverse identities, lived experiences, and talents.
Each of us is an ambassador of this movement. This Code of Conduct ensures that together we create a respectful, inclusive, safe, and inspiring environment — online and offline — where dignity, creativity, and impact can thrive.
Anyone who violates this Code may be removed from SWOB or Spicy Awards programs, platforms, roles, and/or community benefits.
01 | Dignity, Equality & Non-Discrimination
- We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, bullying, sexual misconduct, intimidation, hate speech, or retaliation — in any form, online or offline.
- We celebrate diversity and practice inclusion across gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, disability, sexuality, religion, socioeconomic background, and identity.
- We commit to equality in dignity and participation, while recognizing that roles and responsibilities may differ.
- Anyone — including participants, mentors, donors, contractors, jury members, nominees, partners, staff, volunteers, or guests — who discriminates against or harasses others may be removed immediately.
02 | Respectful, Safe & Welcoming Environment
- We communicate respectfully, listen actively, and let others finish their thoughts.
- We express disagreement constructively and privately when appropriate.
- We respect personal boundaries: physical space, touching, shared items, and noise levels.
- We use culturally sensitive, non-abusive language and practice empathy, harmony, forgiveness, and accountability.
- We intervene or report when we witness violations of this Code.
03 | Integrity, Honesty & Transparency
- We speak truthfully and do not mislead or withhold essential information.
- We disclose conflicts of interest early and err on the side of transparency.
- We keep our promises, and when circumstances change, we communicate promptly and seek to make things right.
- We communicate openly and simply, using English as the primary language during campus-based programs or official sessions.
- We do not act anonymously or under false identities in matters involving SWOB or the Spicy Awards.
04 | Professionalism, Conduct & Participation
- We are punctual, prepared, self-managed, and complete assignments on time.
- We act decisively and use our resources responsibly.
- We follow campus, event, and organizational guidelines established by SWOB and the Spicy Awards.
- Restricted areas, such as administrative offices, remain out of bounds unless access is granted.
05 | Collaboration, Support & Community Solidarity
- We help each other sincerely when requested, and we ask for help when needed.
- We respect each other’s time by being clear, focused, and realistic in our requests.
- We appreciate the contributions of catalysts, mentors, staff, partners, volunteers, and peers — acknowledging that no changemaker succeeds alone.
- We accept help with humility and gratitude.
06 | Community, Culture & Inclusion
- We seek diverse perspectives and build inclusive environments intentionally.
- We respect differences in belief, identity, ability, culture, and opinion.
- We speak names clearly when addressing visually impaired individuals.
- We practice empathy, compassion, harmony, and reconciliation.
- We believe: “Change begins in your own backyard.” We therefore reach out to our communities without expecting personal gain.
07 | Safety, Confidentiality & Privacy
- We safeguard confidential, personal, and sensitive information with appropriate measures.
- We respect privacy, seek permission before touching or using someone’s belongings, and avoid noise pollution.
- We adhere to all safety guidelines, including smoking only in designated areas.
08 | Digital Responsibility & Public Conduct
- We maintain professionalism and integrity online and offline.
- We avoid flame wars, trolling, misinformation, harassment, or hostile exchanges.
- We never use false identities or anonymous accounts to comment on matters related to SWOB or the Spicy Awards.
- We share information ethically, responsibly, and with accountability.
09 | Legal, Ethical & Organizational Compliance
- We respect the laws and regulations of Kenya and any country where SWOB or Spicy Awards programs operate.
- We follow organizational policies, processes, and agreements.
- We do not attempt to bypass rules or exploit loopholes.
- We use resources — energy, water, materials, and facilities — efficiently and responsibly.
10 | Responsiveness, Communication & Accountability
- We remain reachable and respond within reasonable timeframes.
- We provide donors, partners, and investors with timely updates as agreed.
- We hold ourselves accountable and report violations when witnessed.
11 | Learning, Growth & Professional Development
- We pursue knowledge, mentorship, training, and skill-building.
- We encourage others’ professional development and well-being.
- We reflect, receive feedback, and continuously improve ourselves and our initiatives.
12 | Failure, Reflection & Honorable Exit
- If initiatives struggle or close, we communicate transparently with stakeholders.
- We create space for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning.
- We exit or transition roles with integrity and respect.
13 | A Living Document
Suggestions, improvements, or concerns can be submitted through the Speak Up reporting form below.
The Code is publicly accessible at: www.spicyawards.com/policies/conduct
Report a Concern
If you have experienced, witnessed, or become aware of conduct that may violate this Code, you can report it here.
You may report anonymously or provide your name if you would like us to contact you about your report.
Our Commitment
The Code of Conduct is intended to help create an environment where everyone can participate with dignity, safety, respect, accountability, and freedom to contribute.
Speaking up is an important part of maintaining that environment. Concerns may be reported without fear of retaliation, and reports will be handled responsibly and as confidentially as circumstances permit.
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If you do not agree with these Terms & Conditions or our applicable policies, please do not use our websites.
Dignity.
Responsibility.
Impact.
A respectful, inclusive, safe, and inspiring environment — online and offline — where dignity, creativity, and impact can thrive.
Speak Up ↓