The Virgin Islands Icon Awards has announced 64 nominees across 13 categories for its 2026 ceremony, recognizing individuals and organizations for contributions in fields including sports, entrepreneurship, media, music, agriculture and public service, founder and executive producer Kareem Nelson Hull said.
The nominees were released on May 10 after the Assembly of Judges reviewed hundreds of public submissions received over several months and selected five finalists in each category.
“This year’s nominations truly reflect the depth of talent, impact, and legacy that exists throughout our Territory,” Mr. Hull said. “The stories behind these nominees are powerful reminders that greatness lives among us every day.”
The awards program will also introduce a new feature this year by honoring both current nominees, known as Icons, and lifetime honorees, known as Legends, during the same ceremony.
The Icons are selected through a public nomination and judging process and will be subject to voting. The Legends are chosen based on prior nominations, historical contributions and market research to recognize individuals and entities whose influence is considered longstanding in the Virgin Islands.
Legends will be recognized in 12 categories, including education and youth development, tourism, health and fitness, music and performance, sports, media, religion and nation building.
Organizers said the 2026 nominees represent a broad cross-section of Virgin Islands life, including sports development, youth entrepreneurship, heavy equipment operations, make-up artistry, service to the Sister Islands, visual arts and humanitarian work.
The Legends honorees are scheduled to be announced on May 11 through the Virgin Islands Icon Awards’ Facebook and YouTube platforms.
The Virgin Islands Icon Awards was established to recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the social, cultural and economic development of the Territory.
