_(Commonwealth)_The oldest international writing competition in the world, the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is marking the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme by accepting entries that explore themes of youth-led action, the power of youths around the globe, and how this power can be harnessed to make meaningful changes in the world. Around 60% of the Commonwealth represents young adults under the age of 30 who are actively partaking in advocacy, decision-making, and action in their chosen fields of interest. This large demographic of young change-makers needs to be represented, encouraged, and molded through creativity, literacy, and academics. The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition seeks to address this very need through a simple, fun, and accessible writing competition focusing on themes varying from the environment, gender equality, youth leadership, etc.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition was first delivered by the Royal Commonwealth Society in 1883 and was delivered in Her Majesty The Queen’s name in 2015 in appreciation of The Late Majesty The Queen’s dedication to the Commonwealth. The competition has made a significant impact on the Commonwealth’s youth population by engaging over 100,000 youngsters in the past decade.
The Competition has steadily motivated participants over the years by awarding the top 2 winners a week-long trip to London to engage in educational and cultural activities while attending a special ceremony at the Royal Palace to receive their awards. In the spirit of participation, all successful entries receive certificates as well, while gold/ silver/ bronze awards are presented to excellent writing pieces.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is open for submissions until the 30th of June 2023.
Theme: ‘A Youth-Powered Commonwealth’
Eligibility Criteria:
- Senior Category
Born between 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2009 (14-18 years of age)
- As Head of the Commonwealth His Majesty The King is opening an international conference on the importance of young people in decision-making. Write his speech.
- Does age matter?
- The 2023 Year of Youth was a moment of significant social change – what was its impact on the world?
- Script a dialogue between two people, with contrasting viewpoints, on an issue that divides generations.
- Junior Category
Born on or after 1 July 2009 (under 14 years of age)
- In fiction and throughout history, young people have performed numerous acts of heroism. Choose your favorite young hero and write to them about why you admire them.
- What is your youthful superpower, and how can it make a positive difference to the world?
- You have been stranded on a planet where everyone is 18 or under. Journal your experience.
- Why does your voice matter?
For more information, visit www.royalcwsociety.org
