Entries Open for the National Youth Development Agency Emerging Voices Essay Writing Competition

Entries Open for the National Youth Development Agency Emerging Voices Essay Writing Competition. The NYDA, in partnership with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the University of South Africa (Unisa), and the Linguistic Society of Southern Africa (LSSA), proudly presents the Emerging Voices Essay Writing Competition.

About the Competition

The competition provides a platform for young people to reflect on the legacy of the Soweto Uprising and explore the continuing role of language, identity, memory, resistance, creativity and youth leadership in shaping South Africa’s future.

Theme

“As South Africa commemorates 50 years since the Soweto Uprising, young people are share their perspectives on language, identity, memory, resistance, and the future of South Africa.”

Competition Categories:

• Category A: High School Learners (Grades 8–12)
• Category B: Young Creatives & Youth Professionals (18–35 years)

Submission Requirements

• Essays should be original and unpublished
• Essays must contain 700 words or fewer and adhere to standard formatting (12pt Arial or Times New Romans 1.5 spacing).
• Essays may be written in any of the 12 South Africa’s official spoken languages
• Entries must be submitted in Microsoft Word (.doc/ .dox) or PDF format
• The title of the essay must appear on the first page
• The cover page must include;
  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Contact number
  • Email address
  • Province
  • Competition Category
• One entry per participant
• Essay must be the participant’s work
• The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, Claude or any other generative AI platform to write the essay is strictly prohibited.
• NYDA reserves the right to verify authorship and disqualify entries that contain AI-generated content, plagiarism, or copyright violations
• By entering, participants grant NYDA permission to publish winning essays and excerpts for promotional and educational purposes.

How to Enter

Submit your essay to: AppliedLanguages@tut.ac.za

Closing Date: 23 June 2026

Let your voice be heard. Tell your story. Shape the future.