Tonga — Friends of Tonga has been named a finalist in the 2026 .ORG Impact Awards for environmental work undertaken in partnership with communities and organisations across the Kingdom.
The volunteer-led non-profit organisation is one of five finalists selected worldwide in the Environmental Stewardship category, which recognises initiatives protecting the environment, promoting sustainability and helping communities build healthier and more resilient futures.
Friends of Tonga was selected following a global competition that attracted 4,242 submissions from 145 countries. It is among 35 finalists across seven award categories, according to the Public Interest Registry, which administers the awards.
The international recognition highlights community-led projects across Tonga aimed at strengthening access to freshwater, improving resilience to climate change and reducing plastic pollution.
Friends of Tonga said Tongan communities and organisations were at the centre of the achievement because they had led the development and implementation of local solutions.
The organisation acknowledged the leadership and partnership of the Civil Society Forum of Tonga, Tonga National Youth Congress, No Pelesitiki Campaign and Schools for Children of the World, as well as participating communities throughout Tonga.
Public Interest Registry described Friends of Tonga as an organisation that works with local partners to advance education, environmental stewardship, human development and disaster resilience while strengthening cultural exchange and enduring community relationships.
The other Environmental Stewardship finalists are Fruity Schools Africa, Lwiro Primates Rehabilitation Center, Ripple Africa and Ulinzi Africa Foundation.
Each finalist will receive a US$2,500 donation and remain eligible for further awards. The winner of each category will receive US$10,000, while the organisation selected as the 2026 .ORG of the Year will receive a donation totalling US$50,000.
Award recipients will be announced during a ceremony in Washington, DC, on October 6.
The annual .ORG Impact Awards recognise non-profit organisations and individuals whose work has produced positive change in communities around the world.
