YJI Illustration Contest
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Award Certificate
International journalism illustration contest by YJI for young journalists aged 19 and under, recognizing artistic visuals that support and enhance published journalism.
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 illustration with accompanying journalism piece 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 illustration
- 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 Illustration Contest is a category within the annual Youth Journalism International (YJI) contest, recognizing artistic visuals that support and enhance journalism by young people aged 19 and under. Participants submit illustrations that accompany and strengthen published journalism pieces through creative visual interpretation.
Open to non-professional journalists worldwide, the contest accepts entries from school publications, personal blogs, online platforms, and other venues. 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 how effectively illustrations complement the accompanying journalistic content. 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 illustration and its accompanying journalism piece. Fee waivers are available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Rounds and format
Single round evaluation of previously published illustration work by a global panel of judges
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for how effectively the illustration complements and strengthens the accompanying journalistic content and narrative
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
How can participants enhance their chances of success in this competition?
Participants can improve their chances by ensuring their illustration clearly and effectively complements the journalistic content. Strong visual storytelling that enhances the narrative and adheres to the contest rules is key. Reviewing past winners' work can also provide insight into successful entries.
What are the common pitfalls or mistakes applicants should avoid during the submission process?
Common mistakes include submitting work outside the specified publication dates, failing to provide a publicly accessible link to the entry, or not ensuring the illustration directly relates to and strengthens the accompanying journalism. Carefully reading and following all rules is crucial.
How does participation in this international competition benefit a student's portfolio and future prospects?
Participating in an international competition like YJI's offers global recognition and validates a student's skills in visual journalism. Winning or receiving an honorable mention provides a custom-made certificate and a prestigious addition to a portfolio, which can be valuable for higher education applications or career opportunities.
What criteria do judges prioritize when evaluating illustrations in a journalistic context?
Judges primarily assess the effectiveness of the illustration in supporting and enhancing the journalistic piece. This includes originality, artistic quality, clarity of message, and how well the visual elements contribute to the overall understanding and impact of the news story or article.
How can students manage competitive pressure and maintain creativity throughout the contest?
Students can manage pressure by focusing on their artistic vision and the quality of their work rather than solely on winning. Engaging with the creative process and viewing the competition as an opportunity for growth and learning can help maintain a positive and creative mindset.
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