Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025
The theme for this year’s competition is Our Commonwealth Journey. Journeys are a fundamental aspect of our lives, helping us explore, learn, and grow. Throughout history, nations, communities, and individuals have undertaken their own journeys, navigating the tides of an ever-changing world. Since its founding in 1949, the Commonwealth has undertaken many journeys to evolve into its current form, now consisting of 56 member countries and recently celebrating its 75th anniversary.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025 invites entrants to reflect on the relevance of journeys in a Commonwealth context, whether geographical, historical, or personal. Participants are encouraged to consider the journeys the Commonwealth has taken or may take in the future, as well as their own individual journeys.
Senior Category (Ages 14-18)
Born between May 23, 2006, and May 23, 2011.
1. Equal access to education is a key Commonwealth value. Imagine a Commonwealth in which everyone has the same access to education.
2. National legends and folklore take us on journeys through history and culture. Retell a famous folklore from your own or another Commonwealth country in a surprising way.
3. “Human beings have always needed the connection of literature – its wisdom as well as its sheer escapism.” – Queen Camilla. Write about a time a book took you on a journey; how did it affect you?
4. From tiny seeds to towering trees, plants experience growth throughout their life cycle. Write a story about the life journey of a plant growing in the centre of your community. What does it experience?
Junior Category (Under 14 Years)
Born on or after May 23, 2011.
1. “Together, we represent a third of humanity, with all the splendidly diverse complexity that this entails.” – King Charles. Write about a time you learned something interesting about a different Commonwealth country.
2. Commonwealth states range from small islands to large nations. Write an account of a sea voyage from one Commonwealth country to a small island nation. What do you see? Who do you meet?
3. A secret door transports you into your favourite book. What happens next?
4. Imagine an animal CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting). Which animals travel there? What do they discuss?
About the Royal Commonwealth Society
Founded in 1868, the Royal Commonwealth Society promotes literacy, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural exchange within the Commonwealth. Over the years, it has become a platform for ideas, hosting discussions with global leaders and fostering educational initiatives.
Competition Details
– Application Deadline: May 23, 2025
– Eligible Countries: All Commonwealth nations, Hong Kong, Ireland, Zimbabwe
– Type: Essay contest
– Sponsor: Royal Commonwealth Society
Prizes and Benefits
– One winner and runner-up will be selected from each category. They will be invited to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special awards ceremony.
– A number of gold finalist, gold, silver, and bronze awards will be granted in both categories to recognize outstanding writing.
– All successful entries will receive a certificate of participation.
– Local and regional RCS branches may hold ceremonies or offer prizes. Participants should check with their local branches after the competition closes.
Eligibility Requirements
– Open to nationals or residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories, as well as residents of Hong Kong, Ireland, and Zimbabwe.
– Residents of non-Commonwealth countries with an RCS branch or affiliated organization may participate, but entries must be submitted through that branch or organization.
Application Deadline
May 23, 2025.
