Rich Marshall | What It Means to Host the Heroes Awards

Standing on the stage at the Heroes Awards each year is a privilege that is difficult to put into words.

As host, I have the honour of guiding the audience through an evening that celebrates the very best of humanity — an evening where ordinary people, often reluctant to step into the spotlight, are recognised for extraordinary acts of kindness, courage, and selflessness.

This year’s ceremony on 26th November was no exception. In fact, it was one of the most powerful and emotionally charged events yet. And to share that stage once again with my co-host Justin Manley made the experience even more meaningful. Justin brings heart, humour, and respect for every nominee and winner. Together, our role is simple but deeply important: to give each story the space and dignity it deserves.

A Role I stumbled into ….

I have been lucky enough to host all 5 of the Heroes Awards that have taken place – but there’s a little-known story about how I got to do the first one in 2021 …

A few weeks before the event I was contacted by the organisers and asked a simple question – “would you be prepared to host?”

Now, I interpreted this as a request to look after one of the shortlisted candidates at my table – to host one of the Heroes if you will - make them feel comfortable, buy them a few drinks … “sure, why not, that will be fun”

By the time I realised my misunderstanding, well let’s just say we were in rehearsals doing sound checks and running through the script!

I loved it! Seeing the joy, the surprise, the emotions of those being called onto stage is such a buzz – so of course I signed up again and again.

I’ve been lucky enough to have been joined by several amazing co-hosts since the awards started – it’s been great to watch and learn from others over the years of co-hosting – sharing the stage with some amazing people who have helped shape the tone and sincerity of the event. For the last two events, it’s been great to work with Justin and I look forward to continuing this partnership for the 2026 awards!

Judging and Hosting combined

From the first year I have also served as a judge, and being judge and host is a powerful combination.

Judging means you sit with these stories long before the night arrives. You read them. You discuss them. You feel the impact of what these individuals have done — often in moments where they had no time to think, only to act.

When you’ve been part of the judging panel, presenting the awards becomes something entirely different. You don’t simply read out names and citations. You carry a deeper understanding of the person standing in front of you. You know the sacrifices they’ve made, the risks they’ve taken, and the profound effect their actions have had on others.

As a judge, you feel the weight of their stories.
As a host, you feel the honour of delivering them to the world.

A Night Dedicated to Every Winner

This year we celebrated more heroes than ever before — individuals whose actions ranged from lifesaving interventions to quiet, compassionate support that changed someone’s day, or in many cases, their life.

Every winner stood on that stage not because they sought recognition, but because someone else saw something extraordinary in them. That is the true magic of the Heroes Awards: people who never asked to be acknowledged are finally told, publicly and proudly, “What you did mattered.”

Being able to look each winner in the eye, shake their hand, and share their story is a privilege that stays with me long after the lights go down.

The Heart of the Event

The Heroes Awards are purely, wholeheartedly about people. Real people. Their courage. Their compassion. Their humanity.

As a host, I’m there to make sure the focus is on the Heroes. I act as the conduit between their actions and the audience. As a judge, I’ve learned just how important it is to help share those stories with the respect and authenticity they deserve.

Looking Ahead

Each year, I walk away from the Heroes Awards feeling humbled, inspired, and grateful. Hosting is an honour I fully recognise and appreciate.

To all the winners, past and present: thank you for reminding us what true heroism looks like.
To Justin and all former co-hosts: thank you for helping shape the tone of this extraordinary event.
And to everyone who attends, supports, and nominates: you are part of something truly special.

These awards really do matter!