This category has been awarded annually since 2006 by the Community Relations Council. It aims to recognise individuals who are instrumental in developing new pathways to peace and reconciliation, demonstrating sustained and long-term commitment to community relations work beyond a single community, across Northern Ireland and/or across the border region. Previous winners have influenced thinking on peacebuilding and community relations issues and embody the values of the Community Relations Council: fairness and justice (Equity); the peaceful celebration of variety and difference (Diversity); and the importance of sharing trust and inclusion (interdependence).

In association with NICVA, this Award aims to recognise the long-standing, positive difference an individual has made to supporting Good Relations in their local area. This person is the driving force and leader for Good Relations in their local area, creating a community that promotes mutual respect and understanding, is strengthened by its diversity, and where cultural expression is celebrated and embraced. This person regularly goes over and above to champion the community, while also supporting others and bringing them on the good relations journey. They may be a volunteer or be employed in this work.

In association with the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, this Award recognises a group of local people who have formed a project or delivered an activity that brings together a community to promote mutual respect and understanding, is strengthened by its diversity, and where cultural expression is celebrated and embraced, thus benefiting others in their community. The judges would particularly encourage projects that focus on welcoming new communities or on bringing generations together, building good relations and dealing with peacebuilding issues within the community.