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Hugo Young Award

Recognising young talent in political opinion writing
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. Hugo was one of the most influential figures in British political journalism.

Championing the best political opinion writing amongst students and young people 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. Entries will open again in 2022.

Our 2021 winners
Abby Wallace
Integrated education in Northern Ireland is urgent – why can’t our leaders see that?
Hugo Young Award Winner
Read article
Rosamund Cloke
#MeToo changed Hollywood – but what about our schools, workplaces and homes?
Young Hugo Award Winner (ages 16-18 category)
Read article

Previous winners
In 2020 our winners Ian Johnston and Amy Rushton were announced online by Katharine Viner and Sonia Sodha following the cancellation of our ceremony due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Watch the announcement and read the winning articles here.
Ian's article
Amy's article

Being a gay Christian can be hurtful and gruelling. But I refuse to lose faith

Lucy Knight’s piece on her experience of being gay and Christian won her the 2019 prize

What I learned when naked pictures of me were leaked online

Sophia Ankel won the prize in 2018 for her article on online sexual harassment

I was vulnerable and wanted a home. What I got was a workhouse

The winner of the 2017 prize was Daniel Lavelle, for his piece on homelessness

Guidance and support
Writing tips
In September we launched Media careers insight week, an opportunity for young people interested in careers in media to hear from professionals working in the field.

We had a whole day all about feature and opinion writing, a great way to build on your writing skills.
Get writing tips
Get in touch
If you have questions about the competition, we are happy to help. Feel free to email us.
Email us
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