Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition.
The theme for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled for October 2024 in Samoa, is ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’.
Nearly half of the Commonwealth countries are Small Island Developing States, such as Samoa, which are disproportionately affected by climate change. Communities throughout the Commonwealth also confront various challenges, including economic growth, peace, and security. Building robust and resilient societies is now more critical than ever.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024 prompts participants to contemplate how they navigate adversity and how community and culture can foster resilience and hope in a world grappling with an increasing array of global issues.
SENIOR CATEGORY
(Born between 16 May 2005 and 15 May 2010 (14-18 years of age))
“It’s important to remember that small steps often yield the most enduring change, rather than big leaps.” – Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. What small actions can you take to help address the climate crisis?
Draft a speech focusing on what you perceive as the most pressing issue confronting the world today, and how Commonwealth principles can be applied to resolve it.
At the core of the Samoan way of life lies ‘aiga’, which encompasses family values such as selflessness, hospitality, cooperation, respect, and dignity. What fundamental values and principles from your culture can be leveraged to foster cooperation and community within the Commonwealth?
The Commonwealth’s London Declaration aimed to pursue peace, liberty, and progress. Compose a letter to your President or Prime Minister outlining strategies to achieve these objectives.
JUNIOR CATEGORY
(Born on or after 16 May 2010 (under 14 years of age))
What new habit could you adopt to contribute positively to a more environmentally friendly community?
Write a conversation between you and a grandparent about resilience and hope. What insights can you offer to the older generation, and what wisdom can you gain from them?
While participating in a beach clean-up, you suddenly find you can communicate with sea creatures. What do they say, and how do you respond?
You’re on a school exchange program in a Commonwealth country different from your own. How do you make friends with peers your age, considering both shared cultural traits and differences?
Top Prizes
Each category’s top two winners will receive an exclusive opportunity: a week-long journey to London. During this immersive experience, they will partake in enriching educational and cultural activities, immersing themselves in the vibrant tapestry of London’s offerings. The pinnacle of their adventure will be a grand Awards Ceremony held at a distinguished royal palace, where they will be celebrated for their outstanding achievements. This unique trip promises to be an unforgettable blend of learning, cultural exchange, and prestigious recognition, providing the winners with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Awards
Each successful submission will be awarded a Certificate of Participation, and outstanding entries will receive Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition
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