RCS Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition for Students Worldwide

Estimated Number of Applications so far: 56

The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the oldest international writing competition in the world. Established in 1883, it has been a platform for thousands of young people to showcase their achievements, amplify their voices, and develop essential skills through creative writing.

To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Commonwealth Youth Programme, the Commonwealth Heads of Government designated 2023 as a year dedicated to youth-led action for sustainable and inclusive development. They called for the renewal and strengthening of our commitment to engaging and empowering youth.

With nearly 2.5 billion people in the Commonwealth, 60% of them under the age of 30, this young demographic represents a vibrant “youth force for change.” It comprises exceptional young individuals who are increasingly involved in advocacy, decision-making, and impactful initiatives.

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

Eligibility Criteria

Senior Category (born between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2009; 14-18 years of age):

1. Imagine you are the Head of the Commonwealth, and you are delivering a speech at an international conference on the importance of young people in decision-making. Write the speech.
2. Does age matter?
3. Reflect on the impact of the 2023 Year of Youth, a time of significant social change, on the world.
4. Script a dialogue between two individuals with contrasting viewpoints on an issue that divides generations.

Junior Category (born on or after July 1, 2009; under 14 years of age):

1. In fiction and history, young people have performed numerous acts of heroism. Choose your favorite young hero and write a letter to them expressing why you admire them.
2. What is your youthful superpower, and how can it positively make a difference in the world?
3. Imagine being stranded on a planet where everyone is 18 years old or younger. Journal your experience.
4. Why does your voice matter?

Benefits of RCS Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition: The top prize winners from each category will be awarded a trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events. The experience will culminate in a special Awards Ceremony at the royal palace. All successful entrants will receive a Certificate of Participation, and a selection of participants will receive Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for their excellence in writing.

Please note that this information is subject to change. For the most up-to-date details and guidelines, please visit the official website.