Island Health is inviting youth across the region to apply for the 2026 Youth Harm Reduction Award, with applications opening March 1.

The annual award recognizes young people who have worked on projects focused on reducing harms related to substance use.

That includes substances ranging from alcohol and nicotine to unregulated drugs.

The award was launched in 2022 to highlight youth innovation and leadership in harm reduction.

Winners will share a total of $1,000 in prize money and each recipient will receive a framed certificate.

Island Health says last year’s award went to Mill Bay teen Kalla Shields, who helped provide naloxone training to more than 50 students and staff at her school.

The project included placing naloxone kits in key locations and mentoring younger students to continue the work.

Applicants must be under 19 and live within the Island Health region, which includes Vancouver Island, the islands in the Salish Sea and Johnstone Strait, and mainland communities north of Powell River.

Applications for the 2026 Youth Harm Reduction Award will be accepted from March 1 through April 15, with the winning submission to be announced in June.

Learn more by visiting Island Health.