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The Anna Kennedy Online Autism Hero Awards will return next year, celebrating the incredible contributions of our community. Thank you to everyone who attended in 2026 and to our generous sponsors for their unwavering support.

Celebrating Differences

Through these annual Awards, Anna Kennedy Online recognises significant achievements and celebrates successes.

We acknowledge the outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals, teams, and organisations who have proved excellence, dedication, and commitment to impacting lives.

Your support and involvement have made a real difference in the world of Autism, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

Nomination Categories

Do you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their outstanding contribution to the Autism community?

You can nominate in any of the following categories:

Outstanding Education Awards

Honours educators who go above and beyond to support children and young people with Autism, adapting teaching methods and environments to ensure inclusive learning.

Sibling of the Year Award

Celebrates a sibling who has shown outstanding care, understanding, and support to their brother or sister with Autism.

Creative Arts & Media Award

Recognises individuals or groups whose achievements in creative or performing arts showcase the voices, talent, and experiences of the Autism community.

The Lifetime Award

Awarded to someone who has dedicated over ten years to raising Autism awareness and creating meaningful, lasting change in the community.

Young Person of the Year Award

For young individuals (aged 10–25) who have made an inspiring contribution to the Autism community or achieved something exceptional.

Outstanding Community Award

Recognises individuals or groups whose achievements in creative or performing arts showcase the voices, talent, and experiences of the Autism community.

People's Autism Hero Award

Acknowledges individuals nominated by the public for their dedication to raising awareness and campaigning for the rights of Autistic people.

Parent/Carer of the Year Award

Recognises a parent or carer who has gone above and beyond in supporting their child or the wider community, showing strength, compassion, and commitment.

Personal Achievement Award

Honours an Autistic individual who has overcome significant challenges and achieved something extraordinary in their personal or professional life.

Leading Business Award

Highlights businesses, employers, or entrepreneurs making impactful contributions through inclusive practices and Autism-friendly initiatives.

Animal Human Bond Award

Celebrates the special relationships between animals and Autistic individuals, showcasing how these bonds enrich lives.

Our Testimonials

Thank you so much for recognising Grace’s achievements it means the world to us. She continues to amaze us every day, overcoming daily challenges with courage and determination. We’re deeply grateful for the encouragement the Autism Hero Awards brings to our community.
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Vickie Parr – Mother of Personal Achievement Winner Grace Parr
“The whole evening was so special, so well organised, and truly inspirational. It will forever be one of the most important highlights of my teaching career and my life. Thank you for celebrating the unsung heroes of the autism community.”
Melanie Leahy And Julia Caro
Melanie Whitfield – Autism Hero Winner 2018
“The Autism Hero Awards bring together inspiring people whose courage, kindness, and dedication change lives. Every nominee’s story moves you. It’s more than awards – it’s an evening of love, strength, and raising autism awareness.”
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Steven Smith – Patron of Anna Kennedy Online

GB News – Autism Hero Awards Coverage with Nana Akua

Segment from GB News presented by Nana Akua, featuring Anna Kennedy OBE and actor Vicki Michelle discussing the impact of the Autism Hero Awards.

Autism Hero Awards 2025 – Highlights

Celebrating the inspiring individuals recognised in 2025.

Autism Hero Awards 2023 – Highlights

Highlights from the 2023 Autism Hero Awards ceremony.

Autism Hero Awards 2019 – Ceremony

Moments from the 2019 awards night at Anna Kennedy Online.

Autism Hero Awards 2016 – Ceremony

The first ever Autism Hero Awards celebration.

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