A new creative writing competition is inviting residents across Milton Keynes to explore the theme of safety for women and girls. The initiative encourages original poetry and prose submissions that answer the question: What does it take to build a world, city, or home where women and girls can live without fear?
Celebrating Local Voices
The competition is open to individuals residing, working, or studying within Milton Keynes and its surrounding areas. Submissions are welcomed from four distinct age categories: 11–13 years, 14–17 years, 18–25 years, and those aged 26 and above. This broad range aims to capture diverse perspectives from across the community.
A total of sixteen winners will be recognised, with four individuals selected from each age bracket. Each category winner will be awarded a £30 voucher for centre:mk, providing an opportunity to enjoy local retail and dining experiences.
Marking Key Dates
The closing date for all entries is set for Wednesday, October 7. Winners will be contacted before November 4, 2026, with notification of their success.
The competition will culminate in a special event scheduled for November 25. This date holds significance as it is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, also recognised as White Ribbon Day. This event marks the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
During the culminating event, a selection of the most compelling entries will be presented. Writers may choose to perform their own work, or alternatively, actors can be engaged to read the pieces aloud. Writers who are uncomfortable performing will have the option to designate another person to read their submission.
Broader Campaign Connections
This writing competition is linked to two prominent campaigns: UN Women’s Orange the World initiative and the White Ribbon Day campaign. The Orange the World campaign advocates for a future free from violence, symbolised by the colour orange. White Ribbon Day, on the other hand, focuses on engaging men and boys to actively prevent violence against women and girls, stressing the collective responsibility in fostering a safe and respectful society.
Organisers are actively seeking a wide array of viewpoints and experiences. Entries can interpret the theme creatively, offering a platform for reflection on personal experiences, aspirations for change, and innovative ideas.
Submissions must be original works, written in English. Prose entries are limited to a maximum of 500 words, while poetry submissions should not exceed 40 lines. Each participant is permitted to submit only one entry.
The competition rules explicitly prohibit the use of artificial intelligence in the creation of any submitted work. Further details and competition guidelines are available on the website: https://www.orangeandwhitevigilmk.org/writing-competition-2026.
This story is based on reporting by MKFM. Read the original coverage: MKFM