YJI Cartoons Contest
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Award Certificate
International editorial cartooning contest by YJI for young journalists aged 19 and under. Judges assess visual artistry, imagery, and directness of message.
Mode
Online
Fee
$7
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Annual contest cycle
Time needed
Submission of previously published work
Eligibility
Open to non-professional journalists aged 19 and under worldwide. Work must have been published or broadcast in English during the previous calendar year. Entries accepted from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues.
- Age range
- Up to 19 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Published editorial cartoon accessible online with a public link
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Award Certificate
Custom-made award certificates for all winners from first place to honorable mention
Recognition
International Journalism Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration closed
- 13 Feb 2026
- Results
- 2 May 2026
How to apply
- 1Submit entry via YJI online form with public link to published cartoon
- 2Pay entry fee of $7 USD (fee waivers available)
Rules and guidelines
- Entrants must be non-professional journalists aged 19 or under
- All entries must be accessible online with a public link
- Work must have been published or broadcast in English during the previous calendar year
- Previous first-place winners are not eligible to enter the same category again
Technology requirements
- Internet access for online submission
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Individual entry: $7 USD. Fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
About this opportunity
The YJI Cartoons Contest is a category within the annual Youth Journalism International (YJI) contest, celebrating outstanding editorial cartooning by young journalists aged 19 and under. Participants submit editorial cartoons that combine visual artistry with narrative context to communicate ideas on topics of public interest.
Open to non-professional journalists worldwide, the contest accepts entries from any publication venue including school newspapers, blogs, and online platforms. All work must have been published or broadcast in English during the previous calendar year.
All entries are evaluated by a global panel of more than two dozen judges including professional journalists, teachers, and media experts. Judges assess cartoons for identifiable imagery, use of color, and directness of message. Winners from first place to honorable mention receive custom-made award certificates.
The contest is conducted entirely online through the YJI entry form. Entry requires a public link to the published cartoon. Fee waivers are available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Rounds and format
Single round evaluation of previously published editorial cartoon by a global panel of judges
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for identifiable imagery, vibrant use of color, and directness of message in communicating editorial commentary
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
How can participants enhance their chances of success in this competition?
Focus on creating editorial cartoons that clearly communicate a message, utilize strong visual artistry, and incorporate identifiable imagery. Reviewing past winners can provide insight into successful entries.
What common mistakes should young cartoonists avoid when preparing their submissions?
Avoid submitting work that lacks a clear editorial message, uses unclear imagery, or has not been previously published. Ensure the public link provided is active and accessible.
How does the judging panel evaluate the submitted editorial cartoons?
Judges, a global panel of professional journalists and media experts, assess entries based on identifiable imagery, effective use of color, and the directness of the message conveyed.
What is the significance of having work published before submission?
The contest specifically recognizes published editorial cartoons, emphasizing real-world journalistic experience. Submitting previously published work validates its public impact and relevance.
How can participants manage competitive pressure during the contest period?
Focus on the creative process and the opportunity to showcase journalistic talent. The primary goal is to express ideas effectively through art, with recognition being a valuable outcome.
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