The Emirates Literature Foundation, the Middle East consultant for the Voices of Future Generations initiative under the patronage of UNESCO, has launched a series of online workshops for children aged 8-12 taking part in the global writing competition. The competition closes for submissions 25 April.

In the Middle East for the first time with the support of HH Sheikha Hissa Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Goodwill Ambassador for the Gulf region for Voices of Future Generations, the competition aims to raise awareness on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and Rights of the Child. Young children age 8-12 can submit short adventure stories in Arabic or English for a chance to win.

More than 55 workshops have already taken place in schools across the UAE since October 2019. The new online workshops follow the same format, but will offer new writing tips and guidance for future child authors ahead of the compeition closing date.

The workshops will cover story writing tips, education on the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Rights of the Child, and how these can become the foundation for an adventure story for children. They will also show how to encourage compassion for those less fortunate and help build a better future.

Isobel Abulhoul, CEO and Trustee of Emirates Literature Foundation, said: “In the current climate, the safety, welfare and education of the children in the region remains our priority. We hope these online tools will guide teachers and parents, and inspire children working on their story submissions for Voices of Future Generations. We know there are children feeling restless and bored at home right now, and there is nothing wrong with that. Boredom is often a precursor to great creativity, and I can’t wait to read the stories coming out of this initiative.”

The adventure stories should focus on a hero working to make a difference, drawing on one or several of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set out by the UN.

Voices of Future Generations Middle East will shortlist 20 stories in Arabic and English, which will be judged by an international panel. The winning entry will become a part of the annual anthology of stories from all over the world which will be disseminated globally to schools and libraries.

Entries are open to all children resident in the GCC and in full-time education, including those who are home-schooled. For more details on the workshops and to submit stories, please visit vofg.vofgarabia.org/