The Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) is set to return with a renewed mission: to look beyond the glimmer of gold medals and focus on the grit of the next generation.

Legendary athlete and SOYA Patron Paul Tergat has issued a rallying cry ahead of the 23rd edition of the gala, scheduled for March 2026. He insists that the true value of the awards lies not in celebrating established stars, but in igniting the belief of young, upcoming talent who are the future engine of Kenya’s sporting powerhouse.

Building Belief, Not Just Winners

Speaking in Nairobi, Tergat emphasized that the 2026 edition will pivot towards mentorship and holistic development. "SOYA was never about trophies alone. It is about building belief, especially in young people who think failure is the end," Tergat stated. His words resonate deeply in a country where thousands of talented youths fall through the cracks due to lack of guidance.

The former marathon world record holder drew from his own storied career, reminding athletes that resilience is the currency of champions. The gala has grown from a simple ceremony into a national institution, rewarding excellence across all disciplines, from athletics to volleyball, and even the emerging world of e-sports.

The 23rd Edition Roadmap

Organizers have promised a spectacle that honors the diversity of Kenyan sport. This year, special focus will be placed on the "Sports for Development" category, recognizing those who use sport to uplift communities and fight social vices.

• Mentorship Programs: Leading up to the gala, past winners will conduct clinics across the country to inspire budding athletes in marginalized areas.
• Corporate Support: Tergat called on the corporate world to increase their investment, noting that sport remains the most effective branding tool in the global market.

A Legacy of Excellence

As the countdown to March begins, the excitement is palpable. The SOYA awards have become the gold standard for sporting recognition in East Africa. By shifting the spotlight to nurturing talent, Tergat is ensuring that the legacy of Kenyan greatness does not end with the current crop of stars.

The message is clear: the trophy is just metal; the real victory is in the journey, the discipline, and the unwavering belief that you can conquer the world.