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Make a Difference Awards open for nominations

Chris CraddockJersey communities reporter
News imageBBC Genette sits at a wooden table in a homely kitchen, holding a purple “Make a Difference Awards – Winner” trophy. Behind her are open shelves, kitchen utensils, and a traditional stone feature above the cooker.BBC
Genette Dagtoglou won the BBC Radio Jersey Make a Difference Awards in 2025

The BBC Radio Jersey Make a Difference Awards have opened for nominations.

The campaign celebrates people in the island who go above and beyond to improve the lives of others in their communities.

Past winners include Genette Dagtoglou, who opens her home to human rights abuse victims for respite holidays, and firefighters who saved a man from drowning in St Ouen's Bay.

Nominations are open until 17:00 BST on 31 March and four independent judges will select an overall winner from the island and three shortlisted nominees to be recognised for their hard work.

Dagtoglou said the award helped her realise she does make a difference

Dagtoglou said she was surprised when she was given the award in 2025.

"I hadn't fully realised until the last two or three years how much this week in Jersey means to the refugees because of the fun, acceptance and love people here show them and I'm getting a bit weepy thinking about this.

"I didn't think anything would come out of it [her nomination] - I haven't done that much, I thought," Dagtoglou added.

News imageThree firefighters in matching black uniforms stand in front of a fire engine with safety campaign graphics on its shutter panels. The firefighter in the middle is holding an award plaque that reads “Winner.”
Jonny Burch, Chris Sweeny and Nick Willis from Jersey Fire and Rescue Service won the award in 2024

In 2024, Jonny Burch, Chris Sweeny and Nick Willis from Jersey Fire and Rescue Service won the award for a rescue in St Ouen's Bay.

They were part of the operation which saved a man in dangerous conditions.

Willis said it had been "a shock and a real thrill to be considered for the award".

Nomination categories

Islanders can nominate people in the following categories:

  • The Volunteer Award
  • The Young Hero Award
  • The Great Neighbour Award
  • The Active Award
  • The Animal Award
  • The Environmental Award
  • The Fundraiser Award
  • The Community Group Award

Nominations close at 17:00 BST on 31 March.

The winner will be announced in September.

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