
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025 is now open for submissions! This prestigious international contest invites young writers from all Commonwealth countries to share their thoughts, creativity, and storytelling skills.
Theme for 2025: Our Commonwealth Journey
Journeys shape people and nations. The Commonwealth has a rich history, evolving since 1949 to include 56 countries across five continents and one-third of the world’s oceans. With 2.7 billion people, it continues to grow and inspire. This year, participants are invited to write about journeys—whether they involve places, people, or time. Entries can explore past achievements, present experiences, or future possibilities within the Commonwealth.
Categories and Eligibility
The competition is divided into two age groups, each with specific topics and word limits:
Senior Category (Ages 14-18)
Participants must be born between 23 May 2006 and 23 May 2011. Entries should be no more than 1,500 words and can be written in the form of a story, essay, or reflection. Choose from the following topics:
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A Vision of Equality: Imagine a Commonwealth where everyone has equal access to education.
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Rewriting Folklore: Retell a well-known folktale from your country or another Commonwealth nation with a fresh twist.
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The Power of Books: Describe a time when a book took you on an unforgettable journey and changed your perspective.
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The Life of a Plant: Narrate the life story of a plant that grows at the heart of your town or village, symbolizing resilience and growth.
Read Also: 234 Community Impact Challenge (CIC 4.0) For Nigerian Students
Junior Category (Ages 13 and Under)
Participants must be born on or after 23 May 2011. Entries should not exceed 750 words. Choose from these topics:
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Discovering the Commonwealth: Write about a time you learned something new about a Commonwealth country.
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An Ocean Adventure: Imagine a sea voyage from one country to a small island nation. What do you see, and who do you meet?
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A Magical Book Portal: You find a secret door into your favorite book—what happens when you step inside?
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The Animal Assembly: Imagine animals from different Commonwealth nations gathering for an important meeting. What do they discuss?
Prizes and Recognition
Winners will receive prestigious awards and recognition for their outstanding writing skills. The top two entrants from each category will win a fully funded trip to London, where they will participate in a week-long series of educational and cultural events, culminating in a grand ceremony at a Royal Palace.
Additional prizes include:
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Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards for exceptional submissions.
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Certificates of participation for all shortlisted writers.
Who Can Enter?
The competition is open to all residents of Commonwealth countries and territories. Entrants from Hong Kong, Ireland, and Zimbabwe are also eligible to participate.
To enter, navigate the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition application page.
How to Apply
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Submission Deadline: 23 May 2025
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Where to Apply: Submit your entry through the official Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition website.
Conclusion
Don’t miss this chance to share your story and become part of a global writing tradition! Submit your essay before the deadline and take the first step toward an exciting literary journey.