Best Program 
(Live Action Scripted, Live Action Non-Scripted and Animation) 

Juries of youth production professionals grant these awards to children’s and youth programs that stand out for their excellence. The categories are: Live Action Scripted, Live Action Non-Scripted and Animation for each age group (Preschool 3-5, Ages 6-9 and Ages 9+)  

 

Best Gaming or Interactive Experiences 
(Apps, web games, interactive experiences, website, etc.) 
Awarded by our juries of industry professionals, these prizes go to the best digital production intended for interactive platforms. The production will have demonstrated the ability to create an environment and experience specific to its target audience and platform. The chosen production provides an enriched, intelligent environment fostering user engagement and active participation.  

 

Best Short Form Content 
(Webseries, linear videos, interstitials or any narrative of less than 5 minutes in length intended for transmission on a linear television network or digital streaming platform) 

Awarded by our juries of industry professionals, these 3 new prizes go to the best short form content webseries, linear videos, interstitials or any narrative of less than 5 minutes in length intended for transmission on a linear television network or digital streaming platform for each age group (Preschool 3-5, Ages 6-9 and Ages 9+). The content can be animated, live-action or hybrid. The chosen production stands out for its excellence – more specifically the quality of its pace and editing, its ability to reach its target audience, and a script or content well adapted to the intended platform and audience.  

 

Best Podcast 
(Digital audio files that audiences can download on personal devices or stream from web pages. They are episodic series of shows, fictional or educational targeting kids’ audiences) 

Juries of youth production professionals grant this new award to children’s and youth podcast that stand out for their excellence. Any fiction or non-fiction programs or series of digital audio files that kids can download and listen to. Entries must include one MP3 file for judging.  

 

Outstanding Youth Performer 

This award is designed to spotlight an under-18 individual performer of performers in the industry that uses their unique youth entertainment skill and influence to inspire positive change. They are influential with youth and stand out for their talent in performing, and their uniqueness, audacity, and positive presence on multiple platforms. 

 

Outstanding Youth Ensemble 

This award is designed to spotlight an under-18 individual ensemble of performers in the industry that uses their unique youth entertainment skill and influence to inspire positive change. They are influential with youth and stand out for their talent in performing, and their uniqueness, audacity, and positive presence on multiple platforms. 

Outstanding Achievement Award 
Awarded by a special committee. Given for a distinguished career in youth production in Canada, this prestigious prize salutes the individual’s contributions to the industry, leadership skills, ability to innovate and inspire and career-long commitment to young Canadians.  

 

Emerging Talent Award 
Awarded by a special committee. This award is given to a promising professional whose achievements have made him or her a rising star in children’s programming. This award encourages young creators and broadcast professionals to outdo themselves and, more importantly, to pursue a career in youth production.  

 

Best Feature Film 

(Outstanding Achievement in Feature-Length Productions) 

This award recognizes excellence in feature-length productions in animated or live-action, minimum 40 minutes, aimed at children and youth audiences. Eligible entries must demonstrate exceptional storytelling, technical artistry, and the ability to captivate and engage their target demographic. The winning feature will stand out for its originality, production quality, and impact on its audience. 

 

Best One-Off Special 

(Exceptional Standalone Programming) 

This award celebrates outstanding single-episode or standalone content created for children and youth. Eligible productions must excel in narrative structure, visual execution, and audience appeal. The winning entry will be recognized for its ability to deliver a memorable and impactful experience within a single program or special. 

 

Best Host(s) or On-Air Personality of the Year 

(Excellence in Hosting for Children and Youth Programming) 

This award honors a host who brings energy, charisma, and authenticity to children’s and youth programming. The winner demonstrates an exceptional ability to connect with their audience, guide narratives, and enhance the overall viewing experience. Hosting contributions must reflect creativity, professionalism, and positive influence.