YJI First Amendment Award
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Crystal Trophy
International journalism award by YJI honoring young journalists aged 19 and under who demonstrate commitment to free speech and press freedom. Crystal trophy for winners.
Mode
Online
Fee
$25
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Annual contest cycle
Time needed
Submission of published work or a press freedom action
Eligibility
Open to non-professional journalists aged 19 and under worldwide. Work must have been published or broadcast in English. Entries from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues accepted.
- Age range
- Up to 19 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Published or broadcast journalism work in English
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Crystal Trophy
Top category winners receive a crystal trophy
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
- Registration opens
- 1 Jan 2027
- Registration closes
- 28 Feb 2027
- Competition
- 15 Mar 2027 to 30 Apr 2027
- Results
- 15 Jun 2027
Online · YJI Official Website
How to apply
- 1Submit entry via YJI online form with public link to published work
- 2Pay entry fee of $25 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
- Entries accepted from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues
Technology requirements
- Internet access for online submission
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Entry fee is $25 USD. Fee waivers are available for individuals experiencing financial hardship. Fee waivers are intended for individuals, not schools or organizations.
About this opportunity
The YJI First Amendment Award is a prestigious journalism competition organized by Youth Journalism International (YJI), a nonprofit founded in 1994 in Connecticut, USA. The award honors young journalists aged 19 and under who demonstrate outstanding commitment to free speech and press freedom through their published work.
This is one of YJI's top award categories, alongside Student Journalist of the Year, the Frank Keegan Award for News, and the Courage in Journalism Award. Winners receive a crystal trophy, while all category winners from first place to honorable mention receive custom-made award certificates.
Entries are evaluated by a panel of more than two dozen judges including journalists, teachers, and media experts from around the world. The contest is open to non-professional journalists worldwide who have published or broadcast work in English. Entry fee is $25 USD, with fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Rounds and format
Single round evaluation of previously published journalism work by a panel of judges
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for commitment to free speech and press freedom principles in published journalism work
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
What are the key factors judges consider when evaluating entries for the First Amendment Award?
Judges primarily look for a clear demonstration of commitment to free speech and press freedom principles within the submitted journalism work. This includes assessing the impact, courage, and responsibility shown in addressing relevant issues through the reporting.
How can participants effectively showcase their dedication to First Amendment values through their journalism?
Participants can highlight their dedication by submitting work that actively defends or exercises youth press freedom, covers topics related to free expression, or demonstrates investigative persistence in challenging circumstances. A strong narrative and clear journalistic ethics are crucial.
What are common pitfalls or mistakes applicants should avoid when preparing their competition entry?
Applicants should avoid submitting work that lacks a clear public link, fails to meet the age or professional status criteria, or does not directly relate to free speech and press freedom themes. Ensuring all submission requirements are met and the work is easily accessible is vital.
How does participation in this international competition benefit a young journalist's career and portfolio?
Winning or being recognized in this international competition provides significant global recognition, enhances a journalist's portfolio with a prestigious award, and demonstrates a strong commitment to core journalistic values, which can be invaluable for future academic and career opportunities.
Are there specific types of journalism (e.g., investigative, opinion, news) that are more likely to succeed in this award category?
While all forms of journalism are considered, entries that powerfully illustrate the exercise or defense of press freedom, such as investigative reports uncovering censorship, opinion pieces advocating for free expression, or news stories on related legal battles, often resonate strongly with the award's focus.
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