Never Such Innocence Competition

About the Program

The Never Such Innocence 2026/27 International Competition, "Through MY EYES", invites young people aged 9-18 to share their own perspective on war and conflict and to consider what has shaped it, including experiences, nationality, heritage, gender, proximity, age and education. Entries can be submitted in three categories: Poetry, Art (sketches, sculptures, photos, paintings) and Short Film, which is new for 2026/27. Entrants are judged in four age groups: 9-11, 11-14, 14-16 and 16-18.

Winners have their work published in a digital booklet, receive an NSI prize pack, and are invited to special opportunities. There is no entry fee.

The competition opens on 28 September 2026 and closes on 26 February 2027. Winners will be announced on 5 May 2027.

Eligibility

Open to ages 9-18 (entrants outside this range may submit but cannot win). Entries must address the 2026/27 theme "Through MY EYES". Submissions must be original work and not infringe any copyrights or other third-party rights. AI-generated poetry, art and films are not accepted. Only one entry per category per individual is permitted, but entrants may enter each category (Poetry, Art and Film). Poems may be written in any language. No entry fee. Age 9-11; age 11-14; age 14-16; and age 16-18.

Eligible Countries

All countries

How to Apply

Entries from individuals aged 15 and under must be submitted by an adult (parent/guardian or teacher). Submit through the online entry form as an individual, group or multiple (e.g. classroom) entry. For artwork, share a high-quality photograph or scan. Poems must have a title and be no longer than one A4 page in size 12 font. Short films (documentary, animation, drama or mixed media) must be no longer than 3 minutes, submitted as an MP4 file or a YouTube/Vimeo link.