RISING SOUTH Festival guide
Youth essay contest
How I Plan to Change the World
Young writers are invited to share how they plan to change the world. Handwritten or typed entries are due October 15, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. Ages 12 and under: at least 150 words. Ages 13–17: at least 250 words. Winners must be present at the festival to win.
Ages 12 and under
$50 prize, prize bag, medal, and stage recognition.
Ages 13–17
$100 prize, prize bag, medal, and stage recognition.
View full imageSubmit your essay
Email your essay to BlackAllianceOfTheSouth@gmail.com. Include the student’s name, age, phone number, parent or guardian name, and parent or guardian email address.
Questions? Call (256) 542-1764.