Essay Contest

The Essay Contest is sponsored by Optimist International to give young people the opportunity to write about their own opinions regarding the world in which they live. The approach can encompass a young person’s personal experience, the experience of their country or a more historical perspective.

Prepare a 700-800 word essay on the topic: Who is an Everyday Hero that Brings Out the Optimism in You?

Our club is accepting essay submissions from area student until January 25, 2023.

Winners of our Club contest can move on to compete for a $2,500 scholarships at the District contest (Midwestern Ontario District of Optimist International).

Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to students under the age of 19 as of October 1, 2022 and who have not yet completed secondary school
- Contestants are eligible to enter/compete in only one Optimist Essay contest during a contest year
- Students who win a scholarship in a District level Essay contest are ineligible to compete in subsequent years
Key Dates for 2023
- January 25 (midnight) – Deadline for contest registration (by email or regular mail), including:
  - Signed application form
  - Essay
- Early to mid February – Essays judged
- February 28 – Deadline for club contest submission to district contest
- May – District contest winner announced
Contest Rules
- Rules are contained in the application document. Please note the formatting requirements for your essay.