Winner of YJA Young Journalist of the Year revealed

Loreto Rodriguez has been named the Yachting Journalists’ Association (YJA) Young Journalist of the Year 2026, which is sponsored by Henri-Lloyd.

The winner was announced at the Southampton International Boat Show on Friday 18 September, with the award presented on the Boating Stage at 4.30pm.

The award is open to journalists aged 30 and under working across marine media. Entries can include written and visual content, including photography and video. YJA members vote for the winner from the shortlisted finalists. The 2026 entries covered marine journalism in the UK and at international events.

Rodriguez was announced as the winner during the presentation at the Southampton International Boat Show.

Speaking after receiving the award, Rodriguez said: “I’m just buzzing. I’m just so happy. I’m very proud of how far I’ve come from last year’s portfolio I sent. So, I think that’s very good, and the YJA mentoring scheme really helped me. I’m starting university this year. So hopefully, this award can help me and grow more, and then I’m also trying to do a lot more journalism as well.”

YJA Chair Katy Stickland says: “The Young Journalist of the Year Award is an important part of the YJA’s commitment to recognising and encouraging the next generation of marine journalists, as is our Mentoring Scheme. The way we consume news and tell stories continues to evolve, and it is vital that we support the talented young people bringing fresh perspectives, skills and ideas to our industry.

“The standard of entries this year has once again demonstrated the strength of emerging talent within marine media. On behalf of the YJA, I would like to congratulate Loreto Rodriguez on being named our 2026 Young Journalist of the Year and thank everyone who entered and shared their work with us.”

The 2026 shortlist also included Amelie Ballantyne and Viola Devoti. All three finalists will receive a year’s membership of the YJA.

Ross Partridge, head of partnerships & corporate sales at Henri-Lloyd, says: “We’re proud to support the YJA awards again this year. Quality journalism matters to our sport; it’s how we keep shining a light on it and raising its profile, and this is one small way we can help.”

The award has attracted entries from marine media professionals internationally. In 2025, US-based journalist and Sail magazine editor-in-chief Lydia Mullan travelled from the United States to the UK to accept the Young Journalist of the Year Award in person.

The Young Journalist of the Year Award was introduced by the YJA in 2021 to recognise emerging talent in marine journalism and provide a platform for journalists, photographers and content creators.

The Yachting Journalists’ Association represents professionals working across sailing, boating and the wider marine industry. It also supports standards of journalism and storytelling across the sector.