The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC), a cornerstone of literary culture and expression, invites young talents to participate in the 2024 edition. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth, this prestigious competition stands as the world’s oldest international writing contest, offering a unique platform for thousands of young individuals each year. It is not merely a contest; it is a global celebration of creativity, critical thinking, and the power of the written word to connect diverse cultures and perspectives.
| Theme | ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’ |
| Eligibility | Senior (14-18 years), Junior (Under 14 years) |
| Prizes | Trip to London, Awards Ceremony, Certificates, Gold/Silver/Bronze Awards |
| Topics ✍️ | Climate Crisis, Global Challenges, Samoan ‘aiga’, Peace & Progress |
| Deadline ⌛ | May 15, 2024 |
| Apply Now | Online Application |
| Cultural Events | Educational and cultural events in London |
| Inspiration | Inspired by 75 years of Commonwealth & Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II |
About the Competition
The theme for the 2024 competition, ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,’ resonates with the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, October 2024. The theme underscores the importance of resilience and unity in addressing global challenges, particularly climate change, which has a disproportionate impact on Small Island Developing States within the Commonwealth.
Entrants are encouraged to reflect on their personal experiences and cultural perspectives to propose solutions, share stories of resilience, and envision a hopeful future for the Commonwealth. This year’s competition seeks to ignite a conversation on how community, culture, and a collective spirit can foster resilience against the backdrop of global issues threatening our shared future.
Prizes and Recognition
Winners of the QCEC will be rewarded with not just recognition, but an extraordinary opportunity:
- A Trip to London: The top two winners from each category will enjoy a week of educational and cultural events in London, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at a royal palace.
- Certificates and Awards: All participants will receive a Certificate of Participation, and outstanding entries will be honoured with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards, celebrating excellence in writing.
Eligibility Criteria
Senior Category
Participants born between 16 May 2005 and 15 May 2010 (ages 14-18) are invited to explore one of the following prompts:
- Reflect on small steps to tackle the climate crisis, inspired by Queen Elizabeth II’s wisdom on lasting change.
- Write a speech on the world’s most pressing issue and how Commonwealth values can address it.
- Discuss how your cultural values can enhance cooperation within the Commonwealth.
- Pen a letter to a leader, outlining paths to peace, liberty, and progress.
Junior Category
Younger writers, born on or after 16 May 2010 (under 14 years of age), have equally stimulating topics to explore:
- Propose a new habit for a greener Commonwealth.
- Imagine a dialogue on resilience and hope with a grandparent.
- Converse with sea creatures during a beach clean-up.
- Share how you’d make friends on a school exchange in a different Commonwealth country.
How to Apply
Ready to unleash your creativity and contribute to a brighter Commonwealth future? Click here to apply. Ensure your submission is in by the deadline on May 15, 2024.
For further details, explore the QCEC website.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024 invites you to be part of a rich tradition of literary excellence. It’s an opportunity to voice your ideas, share your cultural insights, and potentially experience the historic city of London. Whether you’re reflecting on personal actions to combat climate change, discussing resilience, or imagining conversations with sea creatures, your voice can resonate throughout the Commonwealth. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a global dialogue on resilience, hope, and transformation.