Storytelling Competition
Writing for a better future - stories that inspire change
In ancient Africa, storytelling was more than entertainment - it was a powerful tool for teaching values such as peace, justice, equality and love. Around the fireside, tales of triumph, conflict and the lessons of daily life were passed down to inspire and educate generations. Sadly, this rich tradition is fading as fewer families and schools embrace storytelling as a way to shape young minds.
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VOY is committed to bringing this transformative art back to life. The VOY Storytelling Competition is a platform for young people to share stories inspired by their local realities - stories that inspire thought, spark conversation and create change.
Background
What is the VOY Storytelling Competition?
The VOY Storytelling Competition is a monthly activity that aims to revive the culture of storytelling among young people, while providing a space for them to express their viewpoints on important social issues.
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Each month, participants submit original stories that reflect their personal experiences and offer their thoughts on topics such as peace, reconciliation, justice, and community values. Two winners will be selected and rewarded, with their stories featured across VOY's platforms.
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The year will conclude with a Grand Championship, where the monthly winners will present their stories live and compete for top prizes in front of an audience.
Prizes
Each monthly winner will receive
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A cash prize of 10,000 XAF
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A certificate of achievement
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A VOY branded T-shirt
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Publication of their story on the VOY website, social media pages and in the VOY Annual Storytelling Book
Grand Championship winners will receive additional prizes and recognition for their exceptional storytelling.
Submission Criteria
To participate, your story must:
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Be 300–450 words long.
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Be original and unpublished.
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Be written in English.
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Be typed and submitted by email to info@voymagazine.org by the 24th of each month.
A panel of neutral and objective judges will review all entries and select the winners.
Who can participate?
This competition is open to young people aged 18 and under who are passionate about storytelling and want to inspire change.
Competition timetable
Monthly schedule:
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Launch: 1st of each month
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Submission deadline: 24th of each month
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Winner Announcement: Last Sunday of the month
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Grand Championship:
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Held at the end of the year to crown the top three storytellers.
How to sponsor:
Each month, the VOY Storytelling Competition is sponsored by individuals or organisations with a passion for youth empowerment. Sponsors receive recognition on the VOY website and social media platforms, alongside the stories they help bring to life.
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If you're interested in sponsoring a month, contact us at info@voymagasin.org and help inspire the next generation of storytellers!
Share your story, inspire change
Ready to share your story? Submit your entry and be part of the change we want to see!
