Nyangu's Learning Center
Writing Competition

My Story, My Voice is a free national writing competition for primary school children (Grades 1–6) who want to share their stories, spark their imagination, and feel proud of their creativity.

Everything You Need to Know

Who Can Enter?

Children in Grades 1–6 (all schools and learners welcome).

What's the Task?

Write an original story (told in the child's voice) within the word limits for their age group.

✨ Important

  • We don't judge spelling, grammar, or punctuation — we celebrate ideas, creativity, and expression.
  • Parents may help with typing only; the story must be the child's own.

Key Dates

Entry Opens: March 1, 2026

Deadline: May 30, 2026

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What Are the Prizes?

We celebrate excellence and participation with prizes that inspire lifelong readers and writers:

For Finalists

Finalists (selected from all entries) will be invited to our Final Celebration Event.

Category Winners Receive

  • Book bundles
  • Illustrated versions of their stories
  • Recognition on our website and social channels
  • Feature video reading of their story

For Every Entrant

Certificates of Participation for every entrant, promoted on our platforms. Stories may also be featured in a Nyangu Story Collection shared with our community.

What to Expect from the Writing Competition Final

Finalists and their families are invited to a celebratory event where:

📖 Shortlisted stories are read aloud

🏆 Winners are announced in each age category

Children are celebrated as storytellers

📹 Stories may be recorded or showcased on social media

The final is not a test — it's a celebration of voice, courage, and imagination.

What Are the Rules Around the Writing Competition Stories?

Word Limits

  • Grades 1–3: Up to 300 words
  • Grades 4–6: Up to 500 words

Story Requirements

  • Must be the child's own original work
  • Must fit within the word limit
  • Must be submitted via the online entry form
  • Only one story per child

✔ What Parents & Teachers Can Help With

  • ✓ Typing the story (if the child dictates)
  • ✓ Encouragement and discussion of ideas

✘ What They Shouldn't Do

  • ✘ Rewrite the story
  • ✘ Add their own content or ideas
  • ✘ Focus on corrections rather than encouragement

Stories that don't meet the rules will not be judged.

Why Is the Writing Competition So Important?

Writing helps children:

🗣️ Find their voice and express ideas clearly

💪 Build confidence in communication

🌟 Grow their imagination and storytelling skills

🎯 Celebrate effort over perfection

We want every child to feel proud of their voice and ideas — regardless of how they perform in school writing tasks. This competition gives children a platform to shine and be heard.

Need Inspiration?

Here are some great videos to help students get started:

🎥 Encouraging creativity and stories

Tips and inspiration for young writers

Watch on YouTube →

📺 How to Enter & Top Tips

Quick overview and motivation

Watch on YouTube →

💡 These videos are fun, short, and perfect for sparking ideas before writing begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Share Your Child's Story?

Give your child a platform to shine. Every story deserves to be heard.