NYABJ 2026 Sneaker Ball & Awards Gala

NEW YORK, NY — September 8, 2026 — The New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ) is officially calling on journalists, media professionals, news organizations and media platforms to submit their outstanding work for consideration at the 2026 NYABJ Awards Gala & Sneaker Ball, taking place Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Alhambra Ballroom in New York City.

The annual celebration/fundraiser recognizes exceptional journalism and media contributions that inform, inspire and give voice to communities throughout New York and beyond.

Under the leadership of NYABJ President Cynthia Horner, the organization is inviting eligible journalists and media professionals to showcase work that demonstrates excellence in reporting, storytelling, investigative journalism, commentary, photography, multimedia, digital journalism and other areas of the media industry.

“This is an opportunity to shine a light on the journalists who are doing the important work of telling our stories, holding institutions accountable and making an impact through the power of the press,” said Cynthia Horner, President of NYABJ. “We want to see the work that deserves to be recognized. This year's gala will celebrate excellence while bringing together some of the most respected voices in journalism and media.”

• Stuart Scott Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism
Recognizing outstanding sports journalism and storytelling.

• Ida B. Wells Award for Excellence in Print Journalism — Features
Recognizing exceptional feature reporting and writing in print journalism.

• Ida B. Wells Award for Excellence in Print Journalism — News
Recognizing excellence in news reporting published in print media.

Gwen Ifill Award for Excellence in News Reporting

Recognizing outstanding journalism at its finest.

• Dyana Williams Award for Excellence in Podcast/Radio
Recognizing outstanding entertainment journalism, reporting, interviews and storytelling in podcast and radio formats.

• Max Robinson Award for Excellence in Local TV Reporting
Recognizing excellence in television reporting that serves and informs local communities.

• Ed Bradley Award for Excellence in Investigative Reporting
Recognizing impactful investigative journalism that demonstrates depth, accountability, originality and public-service value.

• Gordon Parks Award for Excellence in Visual Media
Recognizing exceptional visual storytelling, photography, videography and related visual journalism.

NYABJ is also recognizing excellence across today's rapidly evolving media landscape, with awards in the following categories:

• Outstanding Online Blog
• Best Independent Feature Film
• Best Independent Feature Film Creator/Producer
• Best Sports Podcast
• Best Humor Podcast
• Best Cultural Podcast
• Best Media Website
• Best Print Publication
• Best Tech Reporting
• Best Commentary Reporting
• Best Business Reporting
• Excellence in Social Media Journalism
• Emerging Journalist — Student

These categories reflect the changing nature of journalism and the expanding platforms through which audiences receive news, information, commentary and cultural storytelling.

NYABJ encourages qualified journalists, media professionals, independent creators, news organizations and eligible media outlets to submit their strongest work for consideration. Submissions limited to content published or produced between June 15, 2025, and September 30, 2026.  Entry fees are $100 per category.  Contact awardsandsponsorship@nyabj.org for submission for and payment instruction link. 

Submissions may include work published, broadcast, streamed or otherwise distributed during the eligible award period.

The deadline for submissions is October 8, 2026.

Journalists and media professionals are encouraged to submit early and ensure that all materials meet the applicable eligibility and submission requirements.

The awards are designed to recognize journalism and media work that demonstrates excellence, originality, impact, innovation and a commitment to serving the public.

The NYABJ Awards Gala & Sneaker Ball will bring together journalists, media executives, broadcasters, publishers, entertainers, authors, community leaders and industry influencers for an evening that celebrates professional achievement and cultural excellence.

The evening will feature a cocktail reception beginning at 6 p.m., followed by the awards program from 7–9 p.m., with the Sneaker Ball celebration continuing afterward.