The Young Entertainers Academy Awards (YEAA) aims to not only highlight the achievements and hard work of young people, but to also support, encourage and inspire more young people to get involved in performing arts, and to enable young people to learn about the opportunities available to them in the entertainment industry.
Vision
Our vision is to create a stage where every young voice shines via youth-led annual award ceremonies; celebrating creativity, talent, and bold ideas in performing arts; bringing the community together, and cheering on young people, and those who champion them.
Mission
Our mission is to spark new skills, build confidence, and give young people a fun, safe space to explore their passions and grow their dreams.
Values
Respect, honesty, and kindness guide everything we do. We celebrate cultural expression and believe every background adds richness to the arts. Whether you’re a young person, a partner, or part of our team, you’ll be treated with care and positivity. Together with the support of leaders, organisations, and the wider community, we uplift the achievements of youth in the arts and fuel the aspirations that shape tomorrow.
We listen, understand and act accordingly.
We will always aim to listen to those who interact with us. We believe growth starts by listening, whether to young people, sponsors, supporters, partners, or our own team. Every voice matters, and where possible, we put feedback into action to make the Awards more dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking. Above all, we’re here to support young people’s development and set the standard for best practice in everything we do.
History
The Awards are the brainchild of Sazz Wanogho-Maud who staged the first national awards ceremony in 2003 at London's Hilton Park Lane for young people already making their mark. Inspired by her son Tosh Wanogho-Maud who made his debut as Young Simba in the hit musical, The Lion King at London's Lyceum Theatre. The 2003 Awards were supported by TV presenter Denise Van Outen, actress & TV presenter Linda Robson, and the cast of EastEnders, as well as by many reputable UK theatrical agents representing young talent. What started as one bold idea has grown into a movement that continues to celebrate, inspire, and empower the next generation.
Award Winners
Many Award winners have gone on to achieve great things such as singer-songwriter Pixie Lott and actors Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Johnson and Leonie Elliott. And the inspiration, Tosh Wanogho-Maud, is now a West End star.
