Open call: UMP Awards 2026 jury members

Applications are open from 1 to 11 September 2026 to individuals aged 21 and above with at least three years of relevant experience in music, film, media, arts, entertainment or the wider creative industries.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Knowledge of Malawi’s creative sector.
• Professional integrity and independence.
• Availability throughout the nomination review and adjudication period.
• The ability to comply with confidentiality and conflict-of-interest requirements.

The 2026 awards will use a combined public and jury nomination process. Members of the public and jury will propose candidates, after which entries will undergo eligibility checks before being assessed by the jury.

Winners in competitive categories will be determined through a combination of jury assessment and public voting. The UMP Fan Choice Award will be decided entirely through public voting, while honorary awards will be determined by the relevant UMP Awards committees.

The jury will consist of 15 professionals: 10 selected through the open application process and five industry specialists appointed by invitation.

Jury members will be required to follow the same adjudication standards and conflict-of-interest rules. They will not be allowed to assess categories involving their own work or artists or projects they manage, represent, produce or have a financial interest in.

Key dates

• Jury applications: 1 to 11 September 2026
• Jury selection and confirmation: 14 to 18 September 2026
• Public nominations: 12 to 25 October 2026
• Nominees announced and public voting opens: 9 November 2026
• Awards ceremony: 5 December 2026, Blantyre

Applicants can complete the UMP Awards 2026 Jury Application Form using the application link provided by the organisers.

For enquiries or assistance, applicants can contact the UMP Awards Secretariat via WhatsApp on +265 888 124 256 or +265 984 852 294.