Will and Astrid's winning articles have been published in the Guardian. Congratulations also to our runners-up, Emilie Stewart and Lydia Davenport.
The Emerging Voices Awards is a political opinion writing competition for those aged 16-25. The awards celebrate new voices and fresh perspectives in the UK which, now more than ever, is essential to the future of quality, independent journalism.
The competition offers a range of prizes, provides a platform for new voices in journalism and gives young people the opportunity to gain experience and networks.
We particularly encourage entries from those with a lower socio-economic background, Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and those with a disability. We expect to reopen the competition for entries in early 2027.
To be eligible to enter the awards, you must:
be aged 16-25 and resident in the UK.
have a state-school background. This criterion is included to ensure we are championing voices typically underrepresented in the media and achieving our aims as a charity. This means that you are either currently attending a state-funded school or have previously attended one.
Not already be working as a journalist (including freelance).
Read all the previous winning articles across all categories.
This award remains in memory of Hugo Young, a celebrated political journalist and columnist known for his unwavering integrity, clarity and passion for independent journalism. Former Guardian Editor-in-chief Alan Rusbridger described him as “a journalist who could provoke a welling of trust by the simple power of his writing.” He embodied the values of The Guardian Foundation, championing truth, independence and public interest.
Full competition guidance will be released in early 2027 when the competition opens.
Check out our advice on feature and opinion writing.
If you have questions about the competition, we are happy to help. Feel free to drop us an email at [email protected]