2026 Sees All-Women Winner Cohort
The Goldman Environmental Prize announced its 2026 winners, honoring six grassroots activists from around the globe. The award ceremony will take place on April 20 in San Francisco, coinciding with Earth Week.
This year, the prizes recognise Iroro Tanshi from Nigeria, Borim Kim from South Korea, Sarah Finch from the United Kingdom, Theonila Roka Matbob from Papua New Guinea, Alannah Acaq Hurley from the United States, and Yuvelis Morales Blanco from Colombia. These remarkable women represent the worlds six primary regions and have made significant contributions to environmental protection.
The award, established in 1989 by Rhoda and Richard Goldman in San Francisco, celebrates environmental achievements and leadership. To date, the Prize has honored 239 winners, including 112 women, from 98 nations.
John Goldman, vice president of the Goldman Environmental Foundation, stated, “The 2026 Prize winners are proof positive that courage, hard work, and hope go a long way toward creating meaningful progress.” This year marks the first all-women cohort, highlighting the vital role women play in the environmental movement.
Achievements of the 2026 Winners
Leading efforts in Nigeria, Iroro Tanshi protected the short-tailed roundleaf bat by preventing wildfires through community action. Between early 2022 and May 2025, Tanshi and her community fire brigades effectively responded to more than 70 fire outbreaks, safeguarding the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary.
A legal victory was achieved by Borim Kim in South Korea, mandating emission reductions to meet net-zero targets by 2050. Her efforts have set a precedent for future environmental policies in the region.
In the UK, Sarah Finch campaigned successfully against oil drilling. Her advocacy led to a Supreme Court ruling that will influence future fossil fuel projects, emphasizing the importance of environmental impact assessments.
Theonila Roka Matbobs work led to Rio Tinto addressing environmental damage from the Panguna mine in Papua New Guinea. Her leadership has been instrumental in seeking reparations and environmental restoration.
Alannah Acaq Hurley stopped the Pebble Mine project in Alaska, safeguarding the Bristol Bay watershed. Her advocacy protected one of the worlds most productive salmon fisheries.
Yuvelis Morales Blanco halted commercial fracking projects in Colombia, protecting local communities rights and natural resources. Her work has brought international attention to the environmental concerns associated with fracking.
The ceremony will be hosted by Telemundo anchor Vanessa Hauc, featuring a performance by Caminos Flamencos. It will be livestreamed on the Goldman Prizes YouTube channel at 5:30 pm PDT / 8:30 pm EDT.
