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JHOSI Youth Dreamers Essay Contest 2026
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From Dream to Action
What This Year’s Essay Should Highlight
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(This is the most important section for students)
This year’s essay challenge asks students to go beyond imagining change and show
how dreams become action through leadership.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. showed us that dreams become powerful when we act on them.
This year’s prompt challenges youth to move beyond ideas and into leadership.
When writing your essay, focus on the following four areas:
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1. Your Dream - What is a change you want to see in your school, community, or the world?
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2. Your “Why” - Why does this dream matter to you personally?
What experiences or observations shaped your thinking?
​ 3. Your Action - What are you doing—or planning to do—to help make this dream real?
Your action can be small, meaningful, and personal.
4. Your Leadership - How are you using your voice, choices, kindness, or
service to make a difference?
Student Tip: Your action does not have to be big. Everyday leadership, small steps,
and choosing peace matter.
Submission Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to students in elementary, middle, and high school.
Essay Length:
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Elementary School: 200–300 words
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Middle School: 300–500 words
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High School: 500–750 words
Format:
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Typed or neatly handwritten
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Include student name, grade, school, and parent contact information
Original Work:
Essays must be original and written by the student.
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Awards & Recognition
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Dream Leader Award – 1st Place
Awarded to the essay that powerfully connects vision, leadership, and meaningful
action in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Youth Change Maker Award – 2nd Place
Recognizes empathy, courage, and youth-driven impact.
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Rising Voice Award – 3rd Place
Honors a compelling youth voice with a clear commitment to positive change.
Honorable Mentions
Recognizes creativity, heart, and thoughtful reflection.
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Ready to Submit?
[Submit Your Essay Here]