Eligibility

Eligible participants must have played a critical role and been credited in the entries of the current calendar year of the two award programs. For this new category, nominees must be credited in at least three entries/categories in 2026 (the 18th Annual Shorty Awards OR the 11th Annual Shorty Impact Awards) to qualify.

Judging Criteria

• Credited in the most distinguished work voted by the Real Time Academy, including as a winner, gold, silver, or bronze honoree.
• Played a critical role and demonstrated mastery of the respective craft they were nominated in the winning work.
• Proven track record in both objective professional achievements and driving positive impact (this can include extracurricular activities such as offering mentorship, participating in pro bono work, serving on ERGs, giving back to their communities, etc).