Extended deadline for the "More Than a Traveler" nomination: a chance to share your story

What is the "More Than a Journey" award?

It is Russia’s first national prize aimed at people who create or promote useful routes across the country. The programme runs under the "Youth and Children" project carried out by Rosmolodezh. The core idea is simple: travel can spark interest in Russia, its culture and its nature.

The "More Than a Traveler" nomination: what’s it about?

Here we collect stories from folks who set out and came back with a fresh view of the Motherland. The length of the route doesn’t matter; what counts is how the trip changed the author’s inner world. By sharing their experience, participants can nudge others to discover the country’s still‑unexplored corners.

How to apply?

The call opened on 28 August and has now been pushed to 1 October inclusive. Applications are submitted through the official award website. Fill out the form, describe your journey, and explain why it became a turning point in your life.

What happens after you submit?

1. Expert review – specialists evaluate the entries, also taking into account social‑media activity (likes, reposts, comments) and site traffic.
2. Final selection – the top‑30 submissions move on.
3. Public voting – site users pick three winners who will be invited to the ceremony in Moscow.
4. Remote assessment and mentorship – finalists develop their projects with mentors, preparing for an in‑person defence.
5. In‑person defence – participants present their ideas before an expert council, after which the jury announces the winners.

What winners can expect

Beyond national recognition, laureates receive:

• media support on TV, print and the programme’s platforms;
• the chance to undergo specialised training and become speakers in "More Than a Journey" projects;
• consultations from tourism‑industry professionals;
• gifts from the award’s partners;
• access to a closed Winners’ Club and a voucher for a trip under the programme.

Why you should apply now

It’s peak holiday season, and many people are already on the road. The extended deadline gives those who have already returned a chance to organise their impressions and explain how the trip reshaped their attitude toward Russia. As Veronika Kosykh, deputy director of the "More Than a Journey" foundation notes, such stories can awaken pride in the country and motivate new discoveries.

How to craft a strong application

• Focus on personal feelings. Describe the thoughts and emotions that surfaced during and after the trip.
• Show the change. What shifted in your worldview, plans or habits?
• Be specific, but not overloaded. Mention the types of places you visited – mountains, rivers, historic towns – without listing every name.
• Highlight public value. How could your experience inspire other Russians to explore new routes?
• Don’t forget visual content. Photos and short videos boost the impact of your story.

What comes after the award

Winners can develop their projects within the programme, take part in educational events and act as experts. This opens doors to scaling ideas, attracting new partners and, of course, to further journeys backed by "More Than a Journey".

Summary

The deadline extension to early October is a solid opportunity for anyone who has already visited new corners of Russia, put their thoughts into words and seeks recognition. If your trip left a mark on your soul, now is the moment to tell the story, get support and maybe become the face of a new wave of inspiration for domestic travellers.

Based on materials from: trn-news.ru.