YJI First-Person Essay
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Award Certificate
YJI First-Person Essay is a competition by Youth Journalism International (YJI) for children aged 6 to 19, open to students across India.
Mode
Online
Fee
$7
Duration
Annual contest cycle
Format
Individual
Time needed
Submission of previously published work
About this opportunity
The YJI First-Person Essay category is part of the annual Youth Journalism International Excellence in Journalism Contest, which has been celebrating exceptional work by teen journalists since 2010. This category recognizes outstanding personal narrative writing that combines introspective storytelling with journalistic context and perspective.
Open to non-professional journalists aged 19 and under worldwide, the category invites submissions of previously published first-person essays written in English. Past winning entries have featured deeply personal narratives addressing topics such as identity, culture, and lived experience, demonstrating the power of individual voice in journalism.
Winners receive custom-made award certificates, with recognition spanning from first place to honorable mention. All entries are evaluated by a global panel of more than two dozen judges, including professional journalists, teachers, and media experts from around the world.
Participants gain international recognition for their personal narrative craft and develop essential skills in reflective writing, storytelling, and self-expression through the journalistic lens.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 6 to 19 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Prerequisites
- Published first-person essay accessible online in English
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 must be accessible online with a public link.
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Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Award Certificate
Custom-made award certificate for winners from first place to honorable mention
Recognition
International Journalism Recognition
Skills your child builds
Highlights
- International contest recognizing personal narrative journalism by young writers
- Judged by 24+ professional journalists, teachers, and media experts worldwide
- Part of the long-running YJI Excellence in Journalism Contest since 2010
Rounds & format
Single round evaluation of previously published first-person essays by a global panel of judges
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for strength of personal voice, narrative quality, journalistic merit, and authenticity in first-person storytelling
How to apply
- 1Submit entry via YJI online form with public link to published work
- 2Pay entry fee of $7 USD (fee waivers available for financial hardship)
Fees & financial support
Fee details
Individual entry fee is $7 USD. Team entry (5 or fewer) is $15, team entry (6 or more) is $25. Fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Financial support
Fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship. Contact contest@youthjournalism.org. All financial information is kept confidential.
Frequently asked questions
Is YJI First-Person Essay free?
No. The registration fee is $7.
Who can participate in YJI First-Person Essay?
Children aged 6 to 19.
What will my child gain from YJI First-Person Essay?
Custom-made award certificate for winners. International recognition for personal narrative journalism. Evaluation by 24+ professional judges worldwide. Portfolio enhancement for aspiring journalists. Development of creative writing and storytelling skills.
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