Nominations open for everyday heroes to receive royal award

Belgian residents can now nominate everyday heroes in their lives to be honoured during the National Day ceremony on 21 July.

The initiative is part of the fourth iteration of the “Be Heroes” campaign, which was launched this week to coincide with Volunteer Week.

The citizens' initiative, which is supported by King Philippe and interior minister Annelies Verlinden, will run until 18 June.

The campaign is intended to shine a light on everyday people who are involved in selfless service to their communities and society.

“Every day, there are thousands of people in Belgium who, with their actions and their attention, make a difference in those around them,” the Royal Palace said in a statement.

"For example: neighbours who help vulnerable or sick people in their neighborhood, grandparents who come to support where they can, volunteers who help in every way possible and imaginable.”

Some 50 heroes and heroines, along with the people who nominated them, will be chosen to attend the National Day ceremony at the Place des Palais in July.

A small number will also be given an audience with the monarch at the royal palace in September.

Those wishing to submit a story of a hero or heroine can visit www.beheroes.be.