YJI Frank Keegan Award for News
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Crystal Trophy
International journalism award by YJI recognizing excellence in news reporting by young journalists aged 19 and under. Named after YJI co-founder. Crystal trophy for winners.
Mode
Online
Fee
$25
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. 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 news reporting 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
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 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 should demonstrate excellence in news reporting
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.
About this opportunity
The Frank Keegan Award for News is a top journalism award by Youth Journalism International (YJI), a nonprofit founded in 1994 in Connecticut, USA. The award recognizes excellence in news reporting by young journalists aged 19 and under, named in honor of the YJI co-founder.
This is one of YJI's top award categories alongside Student Journalist of the Year, the First Amendment Award, 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 more than two dozen judges including professional journalists, teachers, and media experts worldwide. The contest accepts entries from 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 news reporting work
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for excellence in news reporting quality, accuracy, and impact
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
How can participants enhance their chances of winning this international journalism competition?
Participants can improve their chances by submitting news stories that demonstrate exceptional reporting quality, accuracy, and significant impact. Focusing on unique angles, thorough research, and clear, concise writing is crucial for standing out among global entries.
What are common pitfalls or mistakes that applicants should avoid when preparing their news entries?
Common mistakes include submitting work outside the specified publication dates, providing inaccessible links to entries, or failing to adhere to the age limit. Ensuring all technical requirements are met and the work clearly showcases strong news reporting is vital.
How does participation in this competition contribute to a young journalist's long-term career development?
Winning or being recognized in this competition provides international validation of a young journalist's skills, enhancing their portfolio and credibility. It offers significant recognition that can open doors to further educational and professional opportunities in journalism.
What kind of feedback or learning opportunities are available to participants after the competition concludes?
While individual feedback on entries is not typically provided, the announcement of winners often includes judges' comments on the top entries, offering insights into what constitutes excellent journalism. This can serve as a valuable learning resource for all participants.
Are there specific themes or topics that the judges prioritize in news reporting entries?
The competition emphasizes excellence in general news reporting, without specific thematic restrictions. Judges look for compelling storytelling, factual accuracy, and the ability to uncover and present important information, regardless of the subject matter.
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