1V Awards 2026 Hosts

This announcement reflects the continued commitment of One Voice Blackburn to youth leadership and female empowerment, a principle the organisation has championed long before it became a mainstream focus. At a time when issues surrounding inequality and representation remain prominent, One Voice Blackburn continues to provide meaningful platforms for young women to lead, speak, and inspire.

A Milestone Event in Blackburn’s Community Calendar

The 1V Awards Dinner is one of the most significant community events in Blackburn with Darwen, celebrating excellence, achievement, and service across the borough. Since its inception, the event has consistently highlighted the importance of youth voice, with young hosts taking centre stage on multiple occasions.

The 2026 ceremony marks the tenth time young people have been entrusted with hosting responsibilities, reinforcing a long-standing tradition of developing confidence, leadership, and public speaking skills through real-world experience.

Young Leaders from the West End Girls Programme

Both Malaaikah and Zoeya are members of One Voice Blackburn’s West End Girls (WEGs) programme, an initiative designed to nurture confidence, communication skills, and leadership potential among young women.

Malaaikah Muhammad, a Year 9 student at Tauheedul Islamic Girls’ High School, said:
“It’s a huge responsibility following in the footsteps of all the other West End Girls who have hosted this event. I’m excited, but also a little nervous. I’ve had my outfit ready for months and can’t wait for the Awards Dinner itself.”

Zoeya Ali, a former QEGs student now attending Clitheroe Grammar School, said:
“I am truly honoured and excited to be hosting the 1V Awards Dinner 2026. It feels incredibly surreal to be given this opportunity, especially given the prestige and significance of the event. I’m deeply grateful to be part of something so respected, and while I know there are big expectations to meet, I am fully committed to giving it my all and helping deliver a memorable evening.”

Commitment to Youth Development

Public speaking and leadership development remain at the heart of One Voice Blackburn’s youth programmes. Children as young as eight receive structured support, enabling them to build confidence and develop essential life skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Chief Executive and event coordinator Zaffer Khan commented:
“Some people see it as a risk to put young people forward to host such a prestigious event, but for us it’s a natural progression. We have a conveyor belt of talented young people waiting for this opportunity. I’ve attended many events hosted by professional presenters and often think that our young people could match them—and even surpass them.”

Looking Ahead to June 2026

The 1V Awards Dinner 2026 will take place in June 2026 at The Exchange Building, bringing together community leaders, organisations, and residents to celebrate outstanding contributions across Blackburn with Darwen.

With Malaaikah Muhammad and Zoeya Ali leading the evening, this year’s event continues a powerful tradition of empowering young voices and showcasing the next generation of leaders.