The Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) annual Medals and Awards recognise achievements in researching, communicating, and teaching a wide range of geographical knowledge. The speeches and citations are a record of the 2019 celebration, with contributions from Professor Trevor J. Barnes, Professor Mark Birkin, Dr Ayona Datta, Dame Fiona Reynolds, and Professor David S. G. Thomas. The speeches include comments on: the continued relevance and importance of geography and geographers for finding solutions in today's divided, threatened, and uncertain world; impactful and well‐motivated work; the importance of curiosity‐driven investigations; capacity building and empowerment; inspirational students and teachers; and celebrating plurality.