Creative writing challenge for Aboriginal youth (18 and under) - James Bartleman Award by Ontario

From http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/english/honours/bartleman/

The James Bartleman Aboriginal Youth Creative Writing Award


This award commemorates the Honourable James. K. Bartleman’s term in office as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. 

The program gives Aboriginal youth an opportunity to showcase their writing abilities. 

Who can receive this award?

Every year up to six Aboriginal students will receive this award for their creative writing talent.  Creative pieces may include, but are not limited to short stories, poems, essays, plays, or songs and must be original work created by the student.

For each category, there will be an 'up to 12 years of age' and '13 to 18 years of age' recipient.

Each recipient will receive a certificate and a cash award of $2,500.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for the award, you must:

  • Be 18 years of age or under.
  • Submit an original creative writing piece that has not in any part been copied from any source.
  • Self identify as being Aboriginal.
  • Be a student enrolled in a school in Ontario.
  • Be a permanent resident of Ontario.

How are recipients selected?

An independent selection committee reviews the submissions and selects award recipients.

When is the deadline?

Completed nominations must be received no later than May 31 of each year.

How do I apply?

Forms are available on this website in HTML and PDF formats.

Where can I get more information?

For frequently asked questions, click here.

Do you have questions about Ontario’s recognition programs? Contact us at the Ontario Honours and Awards Secretariat.

About the Honourable James K. Bartleman

The Honourable James K. Bartleman served as Ontario’s 27th Lieutenant Governor from 2002 to 2007. As a member of the Mnjikaning First Nation, he was the first Aboriginal Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. During his term in office, he set up four Aboriginal Youth Literacy initiatives to give Aboriginal youth access to reading materials. The James Bartleman Aboriginal Youth Creative Writing Award was set up as a legacy to Mr. Bartleman’s far-reaching vision and efforts in promoting literacy among Aboriginal youth.