The Newstream Impakt Awards are back for their second year – and they need the public’s help to find the everyday heroes quietly making a difference in the Czech Republic, including those from the expat community.
Organized by business media platform Newstream.cz, the awards celebrate individuals making a positive social impact, often without recognition. These could be teachers, volunteers, social workers, doctors, activists, or entrepreneurs – anyone who is working to improve the lives of others in meaningful ways.
Nominations are open until May 20, and organizers are hoping for a more diverse pool of nominees this year. While there isn’t a specific category for expats, the team behind the awards is keen to see more submissions highlighting the contributions of foreigners living in the Czech Republic.
“There are so many people in our communities doing incredible things – often without any expectation of praise or attention,” said Tereza Zavadilová, CEO of Newstream Agency. “The Impakt Awards aim to honor these individuals and shine a light on values like empathy, service, and social responsibility.”
The awards are open to the public. Anyone can submit a nomination by visiting newstream.cz. The winners will be announced at a special ceremony on Oct. 14 at Prague’s iconic Spirála Theater (rebranded as Nová Spirála), which reopened last year following an extensive renovation.
The goal isn’t just to celebrate but to inspire. “We believe stories of courage and kindness deserve to be told. Whether someone is building a support system for vulnerable families or launching a social enterprise that changes lives, their impact matters,” says Project Manager Katarína Krajčovičová.
Last year’s winners included a range of influential figures: Alexandra Kolenová, a pediatric oncologist advocating for better care for young cancer patients; Radka Vernerová, founder of the children’s hospice Dům pro Julii; and journalist Petr Třešňák, known for his work with families of autistic children.
The public also had a voice. Jasmina Houdek received the Public Choice Award for her work with Moderní sebeobrana (Modern Self-Defense), helping victims of domestic violence. Another standout was Lenka Šťastná, a leader in the Czech nonprofit sector and founder of Business & Professional Women ČR, recognized for her lifelong commitment to gender equality.
“There are foreigners all across the country making an incredible impact in areas like education, healthcare, community building, and more,” says Krajčovičová. “We want to hear their stories, too.”
If you know someone – a Czech national or expat – who deserves recognition for quietly making the world a better place, now’s the time to nominate them. Visit newstream.cz and help bring their story into the spotlight.