Key Dates
Monday, 9 February, 2026
Nominations open
Please note: The nomination process is completed in 1 step. Excellence awardees will not be required to provide further information at a later stage. All documents provided to the judging panel will be requested at the time of the nomination. Please allow extra time.
Friday, 13 March, 2026
Nominations close
Monday, 11 May, 2026
Excellence Awardees announced on The Educator
Friday, 17 July, 2026
Guest Information due
We require all guest information to ensure that we can cater for specific dietary requirements and so everyone at your table has their name on the table plan. Please use the personalised link in your booking confirmation email to update these details before this due date.
Friday, 7 August, 2026
Australian Education Awards
Host
Sonia Mangat
Sonia Mangat is a seasoned entertainment reporter, host, and storyteller with over a decade of experience in broadcasting. She joined Canada’s #1 entertainment show in 2010 and has since covered everything from red carpets to in-depth interviews with industry icons, building her career on amplifying voices and connecting with audiences. Beyond entertainment, Sonia is a sought-after public speaker and brand influencer, using her platform to spark meaningful conversations.
A graduate of the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s journalism program, Sonia began her journey with an Etalkinternship in 2009 before taking on roles in radio and television as a news anchor, weather specialist, and feature reporter. Her dedication and talent earned her the prestigious Broadcaster of Tomorrow award from the BC Association of Broadcasting.
Passionate about driving change, Sonia is actively involved with Room to Read, Invisible Girl Project, and Laadliyan, advocating for education, empowerment, and gender equality for women and girls worldwide.
Entertainment
Soulfire
Soulfire, a dynamic 5 piece band, specializing in Classic Rock, Soul, Motown, Disco and Top 40 hits. Soulfire offers a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere with an unlimited repertoire. Fronted by versatile male guitarists/vocalists, their infectious energy will be sure to keep the dance floor filled and singing along all night.
Alexandra LeGendre and Eman Hillawi (Lollipop Lyra)
Soulfire, a dynamic 5 piece band, specializing in Classic Rock, Soul, Motown, Disco and Top 40 hits. Soulfire offers a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere with an unlimited repertoire. Fronted by versatile male guitarists/vocalists, their infectious energy will be sure to keep the dance floor filled and singing along all night.
Bella Magic
Dazzling, dynamic, and undeniably captivating, Bella Magic is a world-class circus performer specializing in juggling, contact juggling, and hula hoop artistry—all seamlessly infused with the elegance of dance. With a signature high-energy style, she transforms any event into an unforgettable spectacle, leaving audiences mesmerized with her skill, grace, and charisma.
