AKF opens entries for Youth Essay Writing Competition Against Racism

The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation’s (AKF) Youth Essay Writing Competition Against Racism are now open. In its 7th year, the competition will provide young people between the ages of 13 to 21 with 3 different categories in which to submit their entries. These include the essay writing category, poems, and original artwork. 

Prizes per category:

1st place – R1000 and a brand new laptop
2nd place – R500 and a brand new laptop

This contest has given young people an important platform to speak out against racism. The societal ills of racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia continue to foster hostile environments in South Africa and around the world. What is occurring in schools and academic institutions across the country is proof that there is a need for cooperation and action to address these concerns.

This platform enables young people to start thinking about the problems and, perhaps, offers answers and solutions on racism in their own words.

The topics this year are:

1.    Are racial classifications still relevant in a free and democratic South Africa?
2.    What does a racially just South Africa mean to me? 
3.    The impact of Apartheid on a Born-free generation
4.    Nobody is born a racist… so where does it come from? 

To take part in the competition, applicants should send their entries accompanied by their entry forms to the email address essays@kathradafoundation.org. Entries can also be hand-delivered to the Foundation’s offices at Signet Terrace Office Park, Block B, Suite 2, Guinea Fowl, Extension 1, Lenasia, Johannesburg.

The closing date for the competition is Thursday, 31 August 2023.

For more details, please contact Rethabile Ratsomo on 061-484-4861 or email essays@kathradafoundation.org