The competition launches, 1 September 2026, and invites original poetry and prose responding to the theme:

“It takes all of us to make a (world / city / home) where women and girls live in safety.”

The competition is open to four age groups:11–13, 14–17, 18–25 and 26+.

People, are eligible to enter if they live, work or study in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas of Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire or Northamptonshire.

Sixteen winners will be selected, with four winners in each age category. Each category winner will receive a £30 centre:mk voucher.

From the page to the stage

The competition will culminate in a special event on 25 November 2026, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls and White Ribbon Day, marking the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

A selection of the strongest entries will be brought to life at the event, either by the writers themselves or by actors. Writers who are invited to perform their work will have the option of having someone else read it on their behalf if they are not comfortable performing themselves.

The winning entries will also be published, with one winner featured each day during the 16 Days of Activism.

A theme that belongs to everyone

The competition draws on two connected campaigns: UN Women's Orange the World campaign and White Ribbon Day.

Orange represents a bright and optimistic future free from violence against women and girls. White Ribbon focuses on engaging men and boys to prevent men's violence against women and girls and highlights the importance of everyone playing their part in creating a world where people are safe, equal and respected.

The organisers are particularly keen to hear a wide range of voices and perspectives. Entries can approach the theme in any creative way, making the competition an opportunity for people of all ages to reflect on their own experiences, hopes and ideas for change.

How to enter

The competition is free to enter.

Entries must be original, written in English and no more than 500 words for prose or 40 lines for poetry. Each person may submit one entry. The competition rules state that AI may not be used in any way in the creation of a submission.

The closing date for entries is:

Wednesday 7 October 2026

Winners will be notified before 4 November 2026.

For full details and how to enter visit:

https://www.orangeandwhitevigilmk.org/writing-competition-2026

voicesofwomenmk@gmail.com