A groundbreaking national creative competition has been unveiled in Antigua and Barbuda to engage youth in environmental conservation through artistic expression. The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN), in collaboration with the Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project, has initiated the Creative Young Voices for Wetlands Competition in anticipation of World Wetlands Day 2026.
Aligned with the global theme “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” the initiative challenges students to explore the profound interconnection between wetland ecosystems and community identity through creative mediums. Participants across various age groups can submit entries in three distinct categories: creative writing, photography, and visual arts.
The competition framework encourages youth to produce original works—including poetry, short stories, essays, drawings, digital art, and paintings—that reflect on wetlands’ multifaceted value to health, economy, environment, and cultural preservation. Submission acceptance commenced recently and will continue through January 26, 2026, providing an extended creative engagement period during the upcoming academic year.
Wetlands represent critically productive ecosystems that deliver indispensable services including coastal storm protection, erosion control, habitat provision for endangered species, carbon sequestration, freshwater filtration, and cultural enrichment. Throughout the Caribbean region, mangroves and wetland systems serve as vital barriers safeguarding coastal communities while maintaining ecological balance.
Winning entries will be selected based on creative originality, cultural relevance, and adherence to ESFN’s core pillar of Expression. Successful participants will receive recognition and prizes, with all shortlisted works featured in ESFN’s Endeavour Publication and promoted across partner platforms. The announcement of winners will coincide with World Wetlands Day celebrations on February 2, 2026.
This collaborative effort between ESFN—a nonprofit dedicated to sustainability and youth development across Small Island Developing States—and the IUCN-implemented Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project aims to cultivate environmental stewardship among younger generations while highlighting traditional ecological knowledge.
Detailed submission guidelines and entry portal access are available through the official competition link: https://qrco.de/bgYRqF