IWA Awards
IWA Young Leadership Award
The IWA Young Leadership Award is granted to an exceptional water professional aged 35 or younger, showcasing notable achievements in their career. The recipient has demonstrated outstanding leadership potential and the ability to play a large and influential role in the water industry in the future. Eligible candidates can be IWA members or non-members from academia, science or practice (utilities, consultancy, technology providers, government, NGOs and civil society, or international organisations). The award winner will be recognised for the excellence of their contribution based on the judging criteria set out below. All applications are made on a confidential basis.
2026 Awardee
Abishek Narayan
Dr Abishek Narayan has demonstrated remarkable initiative in advancing Citywide Inclusive Sanitation and decentralised water reuse, translating research into practical approaches adopted by governments, development banks and international organisations. Alongside his scientific contributions, he has created platforms that enable young people to lead, mobilising resources, mentorship and opportunities for youth-led water action around the world. Through his ability to connect research with real-world impact and amplify young voices in global water policy, he exemplifies the vision, initiative and leadership potential celebrated by the IWA Young Leadership Award.