Zora Neale Hurston Award This is the highest Award given by the National Association of Black Storytellers. This Award recognizes an individual whose body of work, accomplishments, and experiences has had a historic, regional, national and/or international impact in preserving and perpetuating the arts,
culture, and humanities from the African Diaspora. These categories include: storytelling, folklore, literature, material culture, fiber arts, performing arts, spoken word, visual arts, theater, dance, history, folk & traditional arts, music, journalism, education, anthropology, etc. Up to
three (3) individuals may receive the Zora Neale Hurston Award. A person may be nominated for the award if nominee has made transition between the immediate past NABS Festival and Conference and the immediate deadline of the upcoming Festival.

Brother Blue Circle of Elders Award
This Award recognizes the contributions and honored presence of Elders in the Storytelling Community. The nominee must meet the following requirements:
*Be over 60 years of age *Have been a member for at least three years
*A financial member of NABS *Have attended at least three NABS Festivals
Up to six (6) individuals may be inducted into the Circle.

Linda Jenkins Brown Nia Award for Service
This Award is given to a financial NABS member whose commitment, work ethic, and dedication promotes and embodies the vision, mission, and spirit of NABS and its programs.
Up to two (2) individuals may receive this award.
 
 
Baba Jamal Koram Harambee Youth Award
Category I – Age 7-10
Category II – Age 11-14
Category III – Age 15 – 18
Category IV - Youth group of an affiliate or youth group of a financial NABS member.