The Never Such Innocence organisation has opened submissions for its 2025–26 global creative competition, inviting young people to express their voices through poetry, art, speech, or song under the theme “In Someone Else’s Shoes.”
The initiative encourages young creators to explore empathy, understanding and shared human experience through creativity.
Benefits
As a high-profile international competition, Never Such Innocence offers a range of exciting opportunities for winners, which may include awards, publication, and international recognition.
Eligibility
The competition is open to young people aged 9 to 18, divided into the following categories:
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Ages 9–11
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Ages 11–14
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Ages 14–16
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Ages 16–18
Entries from those aged 15 and under must be submitted by an adult on their behalf, with consent to the competition rules. Copyright remains with the creator, though Never Such Innocence may publish or broadcast submitted works.
Submission guidelines
Participants may submit work in poetry, art or song.
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Poems: Must have a title, fit on one A4 page (size 12 font), and be original. AI-generated content is not allowed. Non-English poems must include the original text and a voice recording.
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Artwork: May be created in any medium (painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, or digital). Submit high-quality photos or scans; originals may be requested for verification.
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Songs: Must include written lyrics and a recording. Songs may be in any language.
All entries must be original and unpublished. AI-generated content is strictly prohibited across all categories.
Deadline
The deadline for submissions is 27 February 2026.
Winners will be announced on or before 17 April 2026.
For full competition details and to apply, visit the Never Such Innocence website.
Explore more global calls on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
