VZ-02 · Voices of Zanzibar
Blue Storyteller of the Year
A journalist, documentary maker or creator whose work explained the ocean, fisheries, conservation or coastal livelihoods, in Kiswahili or English.
What the judges look for
- Depth and accuracy of the reporting
- Voices of coastal communities included
- Public awareness or change achieved
And the three ZBEA values
- Excellence. Outstanding results, quality and service, shown with evidence.
- Responsibility. Care for people, culture and the ocean that sustains the islands.
- Zanzibar value. Local jobs, local suppliers, local ownership and skills.
Rules for creator awards. Content must have been published between 1 January and 15 December 2026, and the entrant must own the rights to it. Followers and engagement must be genuine: accounts found buying followers, views or votes are disqualified. Paid partnerships must have been disclosed. Content filmed people only with their consent and respected Zanzibar's culture. Judges look at quality and impact, not follower count, so smaller creators can win.
Also in Voices of Zanzibar
- VZ-01
Content Creator of the Year
The creator (individual, duo or small team) whose body of work in 2026 best showed Zanzibar's places, people, food and culture to the world.
Public vote - VZ-03
Video of the Year
A single short-form video (Reel, TikTok or YouTube Short) about Zanzibar that captured hearts in 2026.
Public vote