Swedish singer Zara Larsson has been named The Trevor Project’s 2026 Mental Health Champion of the Year. Announced October 9, ahead of World Mental Health Day, the award recognizes her public support for LGBTQ+ young people and willingness to discuss mental health.
Key Takeaways
- The Trevor Project named Zara Larsson its 2026 Mental Health Champion of the Year
- Larsson is the sixth recipient of the annual award, which began in 2021
- Her advocacy includes supporting transgender rights and participating in Pride celebrations
- She partnered with Maybelline’s Brave Together mental-health initiative in 2024
- The recognition was announced ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10
The Trevor Project Honors Larsson’s Advocacy
The Trevor Project’s annual Mental Health Champion of the Year Award recognizes public figures who use their platforms to challenge stigma and advocate for the well-being of LGBTQ+ young people.
Larsson becomes the sixth recipient, following Megan Thee Stallion in 2025, Dua Lipa in 2024, Dylan Mulvaney in 2023, Janelle Monáe in 2022, and Lil Nas X in 2021.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, Larsson emphasized the importance of speaking publicly about issues she believes in. She also expressed appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community’s support throughout her career and encouraged young people to embrace their identities.
The Trevor Project highlighted her commitment to equality, self-expression, and belonging as central reasons for the recognition.
Larsson’s Public Support for LGBTQ+ Communities
Larsson has publicly supported transgender rights and headlined Pride celebrations. These activities have contributed to her visibility as an LGBTQ+ ally beyond her music career.
The Trevor Project also noted that she frequently credits LGBTQ+ fans with influencing her music and creativity. Her advocacy connects with broader conversations about LGBTQ+ representation in music, including how artists use their public platforms to encourage visibility, inclusion, and self-expression.
Her involvement extends beyond individual performances. Through public statements and appearances, Larsson has consistently expressed support for LGBTQ+ people and their right to live openly.
The 2026 award acknowledges these activities alongside her willingness to discuss mental health, distinguishing the recognition from honors based on musical achievements.
Previous Mental Health Awareness Initiatives
In 2024, Larsson partnered with Maybelline’s Brave Together initiative, which promotes mental-health awareness and encourages conversations about anxiety, depression, and seeking support.
She has also spoken publicly about her own mental-health experiences and the importance of having supportive people in her life.
The partnership connected Larsson’s public profile with a campaign focused on reducing stigma around mental-health discussions. Her participation preceded The Trevor Project’s 2026 recognition and provides another example of her involvement in awareness efforts.
Similar celebrity-supported efforts include Selena Gomez’s Rare Impact Fund, which supports organizations working to expand access to youth mental-health services and education.
While these initiatives operate independently, they illustrate how entertainers participate in public conversations about mental health through advocacy, partnerships, and nonprofit programs.
The Trevor Project’s Work Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People
The Trevor Project is a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people. Its work includes crisis counseling, peer support, public education, research, and advocacy.
The organization’s 2025 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People reported that 44% of respondents who wanted mental-health care were unable to access it.
The findings highlight barriers to support among surveyed LGBTQ+ young people and provide context for the organization’s efforts to expand awareness of available resources.
The Trevor Project also emphasizes the importance of supportive families, schools, communities, and public figures in promoting young people’s well-being.
By recognizing Larsson, the organization draws attention to public advocacy that encourages acceptance and conversations about mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Trevor Project’s Mental Health Champion of the Year Award?
The annual award recognizes public figures who support LGBTQ+ young people and promote mental-health awareness through advocacy and public engagement.
Why Did Zara Larsson Receive the 2026 Honor?
Larsson received the award for her longstanding LGBTQ+ advocacy, support for transgender rights, participation in Pride events, and openness about mental health.
How Has Zara Larsson Supported LGBTQ+ Communities?
She has publicly advocated for transgender rights, participated in Pride celebrations, and acknowledged the influence of LGBTQ+ fans on her career and creative work.
Has Zara Larsson Worked on Other Mental Health Campaigns?
Yes. In 2024, she partnered with Maybelline’s Brave Together initiative, which promotes mental-health awareness and encourages people to seek support.
What Services Does The Trevor Project Provide?
The Trevor Project offers crisis counseling and peer support for LGBTQ+ young people. Its broader activities include research, education, and advocacy focused on improving their well-being.
