What is the Spicy Awards all about?
Spicy Awards is a bold initiative by Spice Without Borders, celebrating changemakers whose fire transforms communities and redefines leadership from the margins.
Inspired by the chili — our symbol of enduring spirit — the Spicy Awards honours those who remain potent under pressure: Activists, Creatives, Entrepreneurs, Initiators, and Innovators.
Each colour — Red, Purple, Orange, Green, and Yellow — represents a force of change that burns not to destroy, but to illuminate and inspire.
More than an award, Spicy Awards is a movement that amplifies unseen impact and celebrates the power of human fire to create lasting transformation.

When and where is the event taking place?
September 10–12, 2026 | Nairobi, Kenya.
The exact venue will be announced on our website and social media platforms closer to the date.

Who should attend the Spicy Awards Gala?
Anyone passionate about entrepreneurship, innovation, and social change — from grassroots leaders and startups to investors, partners, and creative professionals.

How can I register for the event?
Visit our official website spicyawards.com and click on “Get Tickets” to complete your registration.

Is there a registration fee?
Yes. Early bird discounts, group rates, and partner packages will be available.
Check the registration page for detailed pricing and ticket tiers.

Is there a schedule of events available?
Yes. The detailed program will be shared closer to the event. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates.

Will there be opportunities for networking?
Absolutely! Spicy Awards is designed to connect changemakers, innovators, and impact leaders. Dedicated networking sessions, meet-the-speaker lounges, and partner exhibitions will create space for meaningful collaboration.

How can I stay updated on news and announcements?
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (Twitter) — and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates.

What does #SpicyAwards mean?
It’s our official hashtag — representing a movement of courage, creativity, and change. Use it to join the global conversation.

Can I become a partner or sponsor?
Yes! Spicy Awards partners with corporations, foundations, and social enterprises that believe in empowering changemakers.
Visit our “Partner With Us” page or email partner@spicyawards.com to explore collaboration opportunities.

Will media and press be invited?
Yes. Accredited journalists and media houses are invited to cover the event. For press passes or story features, email press@spicyawards.com.

Q1. Who can be nominated?
Anyone actively contributing to social or environmental impact — regardless of age, background, or location. Both individuals and organizations are welcome.

Q2. Can I nominate myself?
Yes! Self-nominations are encouraged. No one tells your impact story better than you.

Q3. Can someone be nominated in more than one category?
Yes, though finalists will only appear in one primary category. Multiple entries help us understand their multidimensional impact.

Q4. What types of work are recognized?
We honour work addressing pressing issues — from education, climate, and healthcare to creativity, technology, and inclusion. Impact, innovation, and alignment with SPICE values matter most.

Q5. What makes a strong nomination?
Tell your story with authenticity. Use the STARS Methodology (Situation, Task, Action, Results, Summary) to structure your entry and highlight your achievements clearly.

Q6. Are there fees to nominate?
No. However the finalists or their representatives must attend the Award Gala in person as part of their commitment to the Awards community. As a social enterprise, we run this programme with the support of partners—but also uphold the principle of fairness and shared value. By purchasing a Gala Ticket, you help sustain the integrity of the awards and the impact-driven ecosystem we’re building together.

Q7. What do finalists receive?
Finalists gain access to optional promotional opportunities — including media spotlights, social amplification, and professional profiling on our website.

Q8. What is required to complete a nomination?
Provide:

• Nominee details
• Description of work and impact
• Supporting documents (testimonials, links, videos, etc.)

The form requires details about the nominee’s work, impact, and background, along with supporting documents. These help the jury verify and evaluate submissions accurately.

Q9. Who selects the winners?
An independent jury of grassroots leaders, past awardees, innovators, and experts evaluates nominees using a structured SPICE rubric.

Q10. What is the jury selection process?
Jury members are invited based on expertise, ethics, and alignment with Spice Without Borders values. Each signs confidentiality and conflict-of-interest declarations.

Q11. How is scoring done?

• Social & Environmental Impact (30%)
• Leadership & Influence (20%)
• Innovation & Entrepreneurship (20%)
• Governance, Accountability & Ethics (20%)
• Public Engagement (10%)

Q12. Can jury members nominate?
Yes, but they must declare conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from related scoring or discussions.

Q13. Is there public voting?
Yes, for selected categories such as the People’s Choice Award. However, final decisions are made by the jury to maintain fairness.

Q14. Can I vote for someone I nominated?
Yes — during the public voting phase. Votes celebrate visibility but don’t override jury scoring.

Q15. Does public voting affect results?
Public votes may influence a special category like the People’s Choice Award, but the main award categories are determined independently by the jury to maintain fairness.

Q16. What is the Spicy Circle?
A parallel event within the Spicy Awards — bringing together innovators, activists, artists, and thought leaders to explore bold ideas for social change.

Q17. Who can participate?
Open to all registered participants, finalists, partners, and students interested in creative problem-solving and systems change.

Q18. What can I expect at the Summit?
Interactive panels, idea labs, workshops, networking sessions, and live innovation showcases — all designed to spark collaboration.

Q19. Will there be opportunities to pitch ideas?
Yes. Select participants will be invited to share social innovation ideas during The Spicy Pitch Sessions.

Q20. Is there a fee to attend the Gala?
Yes. Ticket prices vary depending on seat category. Early bird and partner discounts apply.

Q21. Where will the Gala be held?
In Nairobi, Kenya. Venue details will be published closer to the event.

Q22. What happens during the Gala?
Expect live performances, storytelling, keynotes, networking, and the official award presentations in a vibrant evening of celebration.

Q23. Will the event be livestreamed?
Yes — highlights and key sessions will be livestreamed on our digital channels.

Q24. How are winners announced?
Winners are revealed live during the Gala and later published on our website and media outlets.

Q25. Do I need to book a ticket if I’m shortlisted?
Yes. All attendees, including finalists, must book tickets to attend. Contact our team for group or table bookings.

Q26. Is attendance mandatory for finalists?
Yes. Finalists or their representatives must attend the Gala in person as part of their commitment to the Awards community.

Can I volunteer or join the organizing team?
Yes! Volunteers play a vital role in making Spicy Awards happen.
Express your interest at volunteer@spicyawards.com.

Are the Spicy Awards inclusive and accessible?
Yes. We strive to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities and provide diverse representation in every aspect of our event.