Nepali activist Pema Wangmo Lama (26) has been awarded the WEXFO Young Inspiration Award during the World Expression Forum in Lillehammer, Norway. The award recognises young voices who make a significant contribution to freedom of expression.
Lillehammer, 1 June 2026
Lama became a prominent voice during nationwide protests in Nepal in autumn 2025, when tens of thousands of young people mobilised against corruption, nepotism and political mismanagement, calling for transparency, accountability and the right to speak freely.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this award which I believe is not just the recognition of my work but also the recognition and honour of the collective movements of Indigenous Peoples fighting against the oppression and young people speaking up against the establishment that serves not the people but only the power,” said Pema Wangmo Lama.
WEXFO Director Ingunn Trosholmen said:
“Pema Wangmo Lama has demonstrated extraordinary courage in the fight for democracy, freedom of expression and political action. At a time when young people in Nepal demanded change, she stood up to defend the right to speak out and challenge those in power – despite significant personal risk,” said Trosholmen.
According to the jury, Lama represents a generation that refuses to remain silent in the face of injustice. During the protests, she helped shape demands for reform and contributed to dialogue with authorities, including work on the “Gen Z People’s Movement Agreement.”
Rooted in her Indigenous identity, Lama has long advocated for human rights, gender equality and climate justice, including addressing global leaders at COP28 on behalf of Indigenous Peoples.
Despite a violent crackdown on protests, in which more than 70 people were killed, she has continued to push for a more transparent and accountable system.
“Under pressure and real risk, the recipient defended the right to speak, organize, and demand change – a principled advocate for freedom of expression.
In defending the right to dissent – and to disagree with those in power – she embodies the essence of this year’s theme for the World Expression Forum: The Freedom to Disagree,” the jury stated.
About the award
The WEXFO Young Inspiration Award is presented annually to a Young Experts participant (18–35) who has made an outstanding contribution to promoting freedom of expression.
The award recognises individuals who:
- promote, protect or defend freedom of expression
- inspire others to engage
- demonstrate courage and integrity
- achieve meaningful impact at local, national or international level
The winner received a diploma issued by WEXFO, glass art by local artist Kari Mølstad, and a grant to return to Norway and participate in the World Expression Forum in 2026.
Last year’s award was presented to Pakistani human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir for her courageous work defending freedom of expression, rule of law, and the rights of marginalised groups. Mazari-Hazir is currently in jail following her arrest linked to her outspoken criticism of authorities, and WEXFO has expressed concern and called for the protection of her rights and the safety of human rights defenders.
Photos: Jørgen Skaug/WEXFO
