MY HERO Announces 2026 Ron Kovic Peace Prize Finalists

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact:

Jeanne Meyers
Co-founder/Director
The MY HERO Project
[email protected]

MY HERO Announces 2026 Ron Kovic Peace Prize Finalists

LAGUNA BEACH, CA – NOVEMBER 11, 2026

Films exploring the power of nonviolence, the courage to stand against injustice and the many paths towards peace have been selected for this year's award.

The MY HERO International Film Festival has announced the finalists for the 2026 Ron Kovic Peace Prize, recognizing filmmakers whose short films explore peace, nonviolence and the possibility of positive change.

Presented annually by artist, author and peace advocate Ron Kovic, the award celebrates films that encourage audiences to consider how individuals and communities can work towards a more peaceful world.

About Ron Kovic and the Peace Prize

For more than four decades, Ron Kovic has dedicated his life to working for peace and nonviolence. A former U.S. Marine Corps sergeant, Ron was paralyzed during his second tour of duty in the Vietnam War. His experience changed the course of his life, leading him to become an anti-war activist and a passionate advocate for peace.

Ron shared his story in his bestselling autobiography, Born on the Fourth of July, which was later adapted into the Academy Award-winning film directed by Oliver Stone, with Tom Cruise portraying Ron.

Today, Ron continues his commitment to peace by personally presenting the annual Ron Kovic Peace Prize at the MY HERO International Film Festival. Through this award, he supports filmmakers who use the power of film to challenge violence, promote understanding and show how peaceful solutions can make a difference.

By supporting this award, you are helping Ron encourage a new generation of storytellers to imagine and work towards a more peaceful world.

2026 Professional Finalists

I Refuse to Kill – Francesco Da Vinci

This documentary tells the story of Francesco Da Vinci's conscientious objection to the Vietnam War and his decision to form a peace group, Nonviolent Action. With support from singer Joan Baez and Senator George McGovern, the group grew into a national movement, demonstrating how individual acts of conscience can inspire wider change.

Prison and Time – Evan Bode and Marvin Wade

Using animation and excerpts from an essay by writer and activist Marvin Wade, this film explores his 25 years of incarceration. Wade reflects on the personal growth he achieved despite the inhumane conditions of the prison system, offering a thoughtful perspective on justice, resilience and the human capacity for change.

Rocky's Story – Linda Marian

A moving true story follows Rocky, a sea lion brought into the care of the Marine Mammal Care Center. The film traces his journey and the people dedicated to his recovery, highlighting compassion and the importance of protecting vulnerable wildlife.

2026 Student Finalists

Young filmmakers bring their own perspectives to the meaning of peace, exploring leadership, compassion, personal transformation and the consequences of conflict.

PeaceJam: Legacy of Peace – Sarah Hamilton

This short film showcases the work of 14 Nobel Peace Laureates who are committed to empowering the next generation of peacemakers. Through the PeaceJam Foundation, these leaders mentor and guide young people, encouraging them to become active participants in creating a more peaceful world.

Foundation – Jack Hinz

After witnessing the realities of dairy farming as a child, Anthony Walsgott made a dramatic change to his life. Leaving his career as a lawyer, he purchased a 120-acre property on Queensland's Mary River, which has since become Australia's largest cow sanctuary. His story explores compassion, personal conviction and the decision to make a difference.

A Home Beyond the War – Borhan Goodarzi

Through family photographs and memories, this film follows a young boy whose childhood has been shaped by separation and conflict. A personal reflection on the lasting effects of war and the importance of family, belonging and home.

Becoming James – Evan Possley

After decades in prison, a man faces the challenge of rebuilding his life and finding his identity. His journey towards an unexpected form of success explores the possibilities of personal transformation and a new beginning.

Inside the Mind: Wisdom With Mr. Torres – Palben Patel

This student film explores the thoughts and wisdom of Mr. Torres, offering an opportunity to reflect on the ideas and experiences that shape our understanding of the world.

Watch the finalist films and discover the stories behind them.

Visit the 2026 Ron Kovic Peace Prize Finalists page to view the films and learn more about the filmmakers.

To learn more about Ron Kovic and his lifelong commitment to peace, visit the Ron Kovic MY HERO Showcase.

About the MY HERO International Film Festival:

The MY HERO Film Festival is an annual event dedicated to showcasing films that celebrate the power of the human spirit. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers to share inspirational stories of everyday heroes. Thanks to generous sponsors, prizes are awarded to elementary, middle school, high school, college, and professional filmmakers in a variety of categories, including documentary, narrative, music video, animation, experimental, and more.

The festival aims to inspire audiences to recognize the heroism in their own lives and encourage positive actions in their communities. Learn more.

The MY HERO Project uses media, art and technology to celebrate the best of humanity, one story at a time.