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Hugo Young Award

Recognising young talent in political opinion writing

The Hugo Young Award is now closed for entries until 2024
The Hugo Young Award is a political opinion writing competition, created in memory of Hugo Young, a political columnist at the Guardian for almost 20 years.

Championing the best political opinion writing amongst those aged 16-25 across the UK, this award celebrates Hugo’s legacy by encouraging fresh voices, new perspectives and great writing which, now more than ever, are essential to the future of quality, independent political journalism. Please read this page for further guidance.
Enter the 16-18 age category
Entries for the 16-18 age category are now closed for 2023. If you have entered the award, we will let you know whether you have been shortlisted by the 20th March 2023.
Enter the 19-25 age category
Entries for the 19-25 category are now closed for 2023. If you have entered the award, we will let you know whether you have been shortlisted by the week commencing 6th March 2023.
Am I eligible to enter?
Please see the guidance for your category for full terms and conditions.
  • You must be 16-25 to apply. This includes those aged 16 and those aged 25.

  • You must be resident in the UK to enter.

  • Only those from a state school background can apply. 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.

  • 2023 Prizes
    The 16-18 category winner will receive:
  • £100 in book vouchers

  • a digital subscription to the Guardian for one year

  • your article published on The Guardian Foundation's website

  • a place on a Guardian Masterclass

  • a trophy presented at our annual event

  • The runner up will recieve a place on a Guardian Masterclass and a certificate presented at our annual event.

  • The 19-25 category winner will receive:
  • a £1,000 prize

  • their article published in the Guardian

  • one week's work experience at the Guardian

  • a trophy presented at our annual event

  • The runner up will recieve a £200 prize, a place on a Guardian masterclass and a certificate presented at our annual event

  • Previous winners

    More pieces

    Guidance and support

    Please see the guidance for your category for full terms and conditions.
    Writing tips
    Check out our advice on feature and opinion writing.
    Get in touch
    If you have questions about the competition, we are happy to help. Feel free to drop us an email.
    Registered charity: 1153865