Parent using phone to record child playing in spacesuits

NEW YORK LIFE GOLDEN FUTURES AWARDS Celebrate their spark

The Golden Futures Awards honor kids who inspire their families and communities. Share a moment that captures their spark for a chance to win a $1,000 award and national recognition.

Help your child’s spark shine brighter

Kids inspire us in countless ways through the art they create, the kindness they show, and the curiosity they bring to every new challenge. Golden Futures celebrates these moments by inviting parents to share their child’s story.

What’s a "golden moment"?

A “golden moment” can be many things, from proud achievements and small acts of heart to a glimpse of who they’re growing into.

How to share

Upload a photo or video of your child (ages 5–16) with a short description about what makes this moment meaningful.

When to share

Nominations are open from February 9, 2026 – July 31, 2026. Winners will be announced after voting concludes.

How it works

Upload a special moment

Share a photo or video of your child doing something they love or something that reflects who they’re becoming.

Tell us about their spark

Add a short description that highlights their creativity, compassion, curiosity, or determination.

Share their story

Send your unique link to friends and family to cheer your child on. The more people who see their moment, the brighter it shines.

Vote & celebrate

Visitors can vote for stories in the gallery. Awardees will be announced after the program window closes.

Submit a nomination

Upload a photo or short video of your child that clearly demonstrates their passion or talent.

FAQs

What are the awards program rules?

Please refer to the New York Life Golden Futures Awards Program Official Rules for more details on eligibility, requirements, and award guidelines.

Who can participate?

Parents or guardians of children ages 5–16 who reside in the U.S. can participate. Officers, agents, promotional partners, and employees of New York Life or EnTribe (and their immediate family members) are not eligible.

Can I submit more than one child?

Yes. Each child should have their own unique submission.

Do votes determine the winners?

Votes help guide community engagement, but final awardees are selected based on program criteria and review.

Is there a fee to apply?

No. The Golden Futures Awards program is free for families.

What should the description include?

Along with the photo or video, please include a brief description (up to 500 words) about the child’s passion, how they pursue it, and how an award would help support their future.

How will winners be announced?

Winners will be notified within 7 days after judging has concluded. Winners will have 48 hours to respond.

How are awards distributed?

100 winners will receive a $1000 award in the form of a prepaid gift card to the parent or guardian.

Guidance for what comes next

Your family’s financial future matters, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Connect with a financial professional to understand your options and take the next step.

No purchase or payment of any kind is required to apply. Golden Futures Awards and Scholarships are awarded based on eligibility and selection criteria. Application does not guarantee receipt of a scholarship or award.