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The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023

We are delighted to share that the 2023 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is open to entries for writers aged under 18, who are nationals or residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories, as well as residents of Hong Kong, Ireland, and Zimbabwe.

The competition asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

• Top prize : the top two winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special awards ceremony at a royal palace.
• Awards : All successful entries will receive a certificate of participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for excellence in writing.

For full details, please refer here .

Enquiries about submissions should be directed to the Royal Commonwealth Society, please always refer to their website for complete details and information. 

Please note, this prize is run by the Royal Commonwealth Society, not the Commonwealth Foundation.

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Launch: The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023

To mark the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Commonwealth Heads of Government declared 2023 a year dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development and called on a renewal and strengthening of our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment.

Of the Commonwealth’s population of almost 2.5 billion people, 60% are under the age of 30. This young demographic represents a dynamic ‘youth force for change’, made up of exceptional young people who are increasingly involved in advocacy, decision-making and action.The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 is now open for entries until 30 June 2023. Please use the widget below or this link to submit your entries.

For more information visit: https://www.royalcwsociety.org/qcec2023

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 favourite 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?

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The queen’s commonwealth essay competition 2023.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 is now open for entries until 30 June 2023 . The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest international writing competition. 2023 marks 140 years since it was established in 1883. With thousands of young people taking part every year, it is an important way to recognize achievement, elevate youth voices and develop key skills through creative writing.

Categories:

• Senior Category The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023

(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. 

2. Junior Category    The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023

(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 favourite 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 and submission, kindly please VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE

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Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 now open

To mark the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Commonwealth Heads of Government declared 2023 a year dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development and called on a renewal and strengthening of our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment.

The theme for the Queen’s Commonwealth Competition 2023 is “A Youth-Powered Commonwealth”.

Of the Commonwealth’s population of almost 2.5 billion people, 60 per cent are under the age of 30. This young demographic represents a dynamic ‘youth force for change’, made up of exceptional young people who are increasingly involved in advocacy, decision-making and action.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 is now open for entries until June 30, 2023.

You can enter and submit using the following link: https://form.jotform.com/221911966596569

SENIOR CATEGORY (born between 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2009) 14-18 years of age)

1. 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.

2. Does age matter?

3. The 2023 Year of Youth was a moment of significant social change – what was its impact on the world?

4. 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)

1. In fiction and throughout history, young people have performed numerous acts of heroism. Choose your favourite young hero and write to them about why you admire them.

2.  What is your youthful superpower, and how can it make a positive difference to the world?

3. You have been stranded on a planet where everyone is 18 or under. Journal your experience.

4. Why does your voice matter?

The top two winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at a royal palace. All successful entries will receive a Certificate of Participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing.

• Interactive Media Ltd. • P.O. Box 152 • Kingstown • St. Vincent and the Grenadines • Phone: 784-456-1558 © Copyright Interactive Media Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Opportunity

Queen’s commonwealth essay competition 2023.

• The top prize winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to Londin for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at the royal palace.
• All successful entries will receive a Certificate of Participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing.
• 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. 
• In fiction and throughout history, young people have performed numerous acts of heroism. Choose your favourite 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?

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Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 (Win a trip to London)

Deadline: June 30, 2023

Entries are invited for the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 . The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest international writing competition. 2023 marks 140 years since it was established in 1883. With thousands of young people taking part every year, it is an important way to recognise achievement, elevate youth voices and develop key skills through creative writing.

About QCEC 2023

To mark the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Commonwealth Heads of Government declared 2023 a year dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development and called on a renewal and strengthening of our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment.

Of the Commonwealth’s population of almost 2.5 billion people, 60% are under the age of 30. This young demographic represents a dynamic ‘youth force for change’, made up of exceptional young people who are increasingly involved in advocacy, decision-making and action.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

• The top prize winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to Londin for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at the royal palace.
• All successful entries will receive a Certificate of Participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing.

Eligibility

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 favourite 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?

Application

Click here to apply

For more information, visit QCEC .

Jude Ogar is an educator and youth development practitioner with years of experience working in the education and youth development space. He is passionate about the development of youth in Africa.

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Home » Blog » 2023/2024 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition

2023/2024 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest international writing competition. 2023 marks 140 years since it was established in 1883. With thousands of young people taking part every year, it is an important way to recognise achievement, elevate youth voices and develop key skills through creative writing.

About QCEC 2023

To mark the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, Commonwealth Heads of Government declared 2023 a year dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development and called on the renewal and strengthening of our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment.

Of the Commonwealth’s population of almost 2.5 billion people, 60% are under the age of 30. This young demographic represents a dynamic ‘youth force for change’, made up of exceptional young people who are increasingly involved in advocacy, decision-making, and action.

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2023 asks entrants to explore the power young people hold within the global community and consider how this power can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

• The top prize winners from each category will be awarded with a trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at the royal palace.
• All successful entries will receive a Certificate of Participation and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing.

Eligibility

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 favourite 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?

How To Apply

Click Here To Apply

For more information, visit  QCEC .

Application Deadline: June 30, 2023

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Winners of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition announced

Four young writers have been named as the Winners and Runners-Up of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2017. The winning essays were selected from approximately 12,300 entries spanning the five regions of the Commonwealth. The competition is the world’s oldest international schools’ writing competition and sponsored by Cambridge University Press.

Representing nearly every Commonwealth country, entrants wrote about topical issues including social cohesion, finding peace in places of conflict, and peace-building on an individual, national and international level.

Senior Winner Annika Turon-Semmens, 16, is from Adelaide, Australia. Senior Runner-up Hiya Chowdhury, 15, comes from Uttar Pradesh, India.

The Junior Winner Ariadna Sullivan, 13, is from British Colombia, Canada, and Junior Runner-up Ry Galloway, 10, is from London, United Kingdom.

Entries were assessed by a pan-Commonwealth body of judges, drawn from more than 30 different countries across the globe. Judges described the entries as ‘diverse’, ‘creative’, ‘hopeful’, and added that ‘the Commonwealth will be in good hands as these young people grow up’.

The four pan-Commonwealth Winners and Runners-up will attend the traditional ‘Winners Week’ in London in November of this year. Winners’ Week is a special programme consisting of cultural and educational activities. The week includes an Awards Ceremony at Buckingham Palace where HRH The Duchess of Cornwall will present the Winners and Runners-up with their certificates on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen. This will be the fourth time that the Duchess of Cornwall has taken part in the Awards Ceremony.

Director of the Royal Commonwealth Society, Michael Lake CBE, said: ‘The winners’ pieces are creative and dynamic, using rich and colourful language to explore the broadest interpretations of peace. This year’s theme of A Commonwealth for Peace could not have come at a more pertinent time and The Royal Commonwealth Society is inspired by the thousands of entries received this year. The competition proves that the young Commonwealth is ready and able to build a peaceful future together.’

Rod Smith, Managing Director of Education, Cambridge University Press: ‘We’re delighted to be sponsoring The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition again this year. The Royal Commonwealth Society shares our vision of empowerment through education, and it’s an honour to be involved in this celebration of talented young writers from all over the world. We were astounded by the exceptional standard of the entries, and all of us at Cambridge University Press would like to extend our congratulations to the winners.’ 

Anne Fine OBE FRSL, author and former British Children’s Laureate, said: ‘It’s fascinating to see the sheer range of response to any competition theme, but what varied pieces we have here!  The entries come from places in the world that could not be more different – or more colourfully described. But all our young winners show boundless imagination, along with impressive control. It was a pleasure to read these poems and stories, and my warmest congratulations go to all.’

NOTES TO EDITORS:

More information about the Competition, including the Winners and Runners-up, can be found here: https://thercs.org/youth-and-education/the-queens-commonwealth-essay-competition/   

Senior Winner:  Annika Turon-Semmens, 16, Australia

Senior Runner-up:  Hiya Chowdhury, 15, India

Junior Winner:  Ariadna Sullivan, 13, Canada

Junior Runner-up:  Ry Galloway, 10, United Kingdom

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition was founded in 1883 and is the world’s oldest international schools’ writing contest. The competition is sponsored by Cambridge University Press and received approximately 12,300 entries from almost across the Commonwealth.

The Junior category is open to entrants aged 13 years and under and the Senior category is open to entrants aged 14-18.

The overarching theme for 2017 was ‘A Commonwealth for Peace’, which mirrors the 2017 Commonwealth Year theme of ‘A Peace-building Commonwealth’, and an important theme for today’s youth. Both Senior and Junior topics gave young people the opportunity to think about aspects of the theme such as: the means and costs of achieving peace; the link between education and peace; the role of young people in promoting peace; and peace and conflict in the world today. The topics provided an opportunity to develop critical thinking and to express views on difficult issues in a creative manner.

The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) , founded in 1868, is a network of individuals and organisations committed to improving the lives and prospects of Commonwealth citizens across the world. Through youth empowerment, education and advocacy, the RCS promotes the value and values of the Commonwealth. www.thercs.org

Cambridge University Press is the publishing business of the University of Cambridge. Granted letters patent by Henry VIII in 1534, it is the world’s oldest publishing house and the second-largest university press in the world. Cambridge University Press has been a sponsor of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition since 2013. www.cambridge.org

Media enquiries:

Anja Nielsen, Manager of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, Programmes Officer (Youth and Education), the Royal Commonwealth Society

T: +447718 476 232| E: [email protected]

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