I entered the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) in May this year, which Mr. Grant kindly made me aware of. I wasn’t sure I’d have time to write anything as I have a busy schedule, but I really wanted to participate and so I made time.
In 2023 I was one of a record-breaking 34,924 people who submitted essays to what is the world’s oldest schools’ writing competition with submissions from young people all over the Commonwealth.
I entered the Junior Category (under 14 years of age). This year, the theme was ‘Youth.’ There were 4 topics to choose from:
1. In fiction and throughout history, young people have performed numerous acts of heroism. Choose your favourite young hero and write to them about why you admire them.
2. What is your youthful superpower, and how can it make a positive difference to the world?
3. You have been stranded on a planet where everyone is 18 or under. Journal your experience.
4. Why does your voice matter?
My essay subject fell under the first topic. I wrote about ‘Why Greta Thunberg was my young hero.’ I picked Greta Thunberg because I am passionate about preventing the Global Climate Emergency and I admire her commitment and bravery standing up to rich companies and Governments, and not letting herself be bullied.
It is an issue which like it or not affects our generation and the future of all beings on this incredible planet. Writing the piece wasn’t without its challenges. I did a lot of research, which I loved doing. I’d like to thank Mr. Grant, Ms. Greaves and Dr. Bellamy for their support and critique of my work. I learnt a lot, and it helped to make my essay more meaningful and powerful within the word count.
A few weeks ago I received an email from the QCEC and I was thrilled to be notified that I’d received a Silver Award. I am overjoyed to have achieved this. I really would like to put the message out there that if there is something you really want to do, you can always make time.
Lastly, it was a fantastic experience that I would definitely recommend. You only know that you enjoy something if you give it a go!
Ella, Lower IV