“A Voice for Animals” Contest
A global contest for students (ages 14–18) to explore animal welfare issues and solutions through essays and videos.
Now through May 25, 2026, the Humane Education Network and the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) are accepting submissions for the 36th annual A Voice for Animals Contest, an international competition for students in middle school, high school, or homeschool programs.
Background
Participants are invited to submit an essay or video entry that addresses either the mistreatment of one animal species or one cause of animal suffering; or the preservation of one endangered species, occurring anywhere in the world, and potential solutions to alleviate animal suffering. Applicable categories include:
- Companion Animals
- Farm Animals
- Insects/Invertebrates
- Wildlife on Land
- Wildlife in the Oceans
- 2026 Special Topic Category: The Endangered Species Act
If you would like to be notified by email when the contest opens each year, please email contest@hennet.org.
Eligibility
- Participants must currently be enrolled in middle or high school, or be home-schooled, and less than 19 years of age on February 2, 2026 (the date the contest opened for entries). No exceptions.
- The contest is open to students worldwide regardless of nationality, citizenship, or country of residence.
- The contest has sections for 14–15 year old students and 16–18 year old students.
- The contest is open to all otherwise eligible students worldwide regardless of nationality, citizenship, or country of residence.
- English as a Second Language (ESL) entries are welcome.
Submission Formats and Rules
Learn more about the submission details and rules prior to preparing and submitting your essay or video.
Dates and Deadlines
- Submission Deadline: May 25, 2026
- Awards Announced: July 31, 2026
How to Apply
All submissions must be submitted via this form. Entries sent via postal or electronic mail will not be accepted.
Selection Process
Contest judges will review entries to identify interesting topics, clear solutions to the problem covered, and thorough research from credible sources.