X1 Media, a growing platform with a mission of “Communities Come First,” is celebrating the voices shaping media, culture, and public conversation by eliminating financial barriers for storytellers.
X1 Media is proud to announce the launch of the X1 Open Voice Honors, a free-to-submit recognition program honoring journalists, creators, storytellers, and media companies making an impact in their community.
“I’m beyond excited to introduce the Open Voice Honors as it will be groundbreaking in the media industry,” Anthony Carter, Founder of X1 Media, said. “At a time where our industry is greatly threatened, its important to me that my fellow storytellers be recognized and honored for their hard work without having to face a financial barrier in contrast to other journalism awards programs.”
Submissions are open to anyone who embodies true journalism – including those who cover local and national stories, investigative pieces, hold leaders accountable, feature stories, sports stories, podcasts, personal blogs meant to inspire others, and more. The judging process will include a panel and public voting.
Eligible work must have been published, released, aired, or active between January 1, 2026 and June 5, 2026.
Categories for the individual Open Voice Honors:
X1 Media Open Voice of The Year, X1 Media Emerging Voice Award, Media Impact Honor, Investigative Reporting Honor, Public Service Honor, Visual Storytelling Honor.
Categories that will have a Gold, Bronze, and Silver Awards:
Best Independent Sports Platform, Best Podcast Platform, Best Independent News Platform, Best Independent Blog Platform, Content Creator Impact Award.
Submissions will open on June 8, 2026 and close on July 3, 2026.
Official nominees will be announced in July 2026, with winners and honorees announced in August 2026.
More details about each award, submission form, and sponsorship opportunities will be shared in the coming days.
Inquiry Contact: acarter@thexonemedia.com
