Honouring resilience, courage, and a new generation of changemakers across Asia and the Pacific
APCOM Foundation proudly announces the return of the HERO Awards 2026, marking its 10th Anniversary under the powerful theme “TENAC10US”, celebrating the resilience, persistence, and courage of individuals and communities driving change in increasingly challenging environments. The awards ceremony will take place on 13 November 2026.
Standing for HIV, Equality, and Rights, the HERO Awards is an APCOM’s annual gala event set in Bangkok, Thailand. For a decade, the HERO Awards have celebrated outstanding individuals and organizations advancing LGBTQI rights, HIV responses, health equity, and social justice across Asia and the Pacific.
“Tenacious reflects the spirit of our communities,” said Midnight, “In a time when many face increasing pressure and shrinking civic space, this year’s HERO Awards honours those who remain ‘tenacious’ – steadfast, bold, and determined to push forward equality, health, and human rights.“
Midnight
Executive Director
APCOM
Since its inception in 2017, in celebration of APCOM’s 10th anniversary , the HERO Awards have become a leading regional platform recognizing community leadership and grassroots innovation, amplifying voices that are too often underrepresented
Community members, supporters, and allies across Asia and the Pacific are invited to nominate individuals and organizations across 10 categories:
- Business Ally
- Community Ally
- Community Hero
- Community Organisation
- LBQ Hero
- Health & Wellbeing
- HIV Hero
- Social Justice
- Transgender Hero
- Young Achiever
Nomination is now open!
Nomination is free, you can also nominate yourself,
takes less than 15 mins, and close on 12 June 2026
The HERO Awards continue to be guided by strong regional collaboration, with valued partners since its inception including APN+ and ILGA Asia, who have played an important role in supporting the awards and selection process over the years.
“The HERO Awards are not about perfect stories, they’re about refusing to be invisible. Across the region, communities are leading, organizing, and pushing change forward, often without the support they deserve. This is a reminder that we are not just part of the response, we are driving it.”
Davi Ardiansyah
Program & Communication Officer
APN+
“The HERO Awards continue to matter because they recognise the courage, imagination, and persistence of people and communities who keep our movements alive. In a time when backlash is intensifying across many contexts, it is vital that we continue to honour leadership that is grounded in solidarity, service, and the everyday work of pushing for dignity and justice.”
Henry Koh
Executive Director
ILGA Asia
APCOM invites nominations for individuals and organizations who embody the spirit of “Tenacious”, those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, impact, and leadership in advancing LGBTQI rights, health, and wellbeing outcomes.
The HERO Awards 2026 ceremony will bring together community leaders, advocates, partners, and allies from across the region to celebrate a decade of impact, and to honour those who continue to lead with courage and conviction.
Do you know someone who’s Tenacious?
Get busy nominating! Nominate now!
Nomination is free, you can also nominate yourself,
takes less than 15 mins, and close on 12 June 2026
For more information about HERO Awards 2026:
