Youth Writers & Artists Resources
This page highlights regional and national competitions for youth writers and artists aged 13–22. As a collegiate organization founded in the Bay Area, we’re grateful for the opportunities we received during our high school years that continue to inspire our work today. In that spirit, an essential goal of Moonseed is the commitment we share in giving back to the youth artist community.
Bay Area Youth Writing & Artist Opportunities
Youth writing and artist opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area. This section is updated regularly.
Bay Area Creative Foundation
The Creative Youth Awards (CYA) is an annual program founded by BACF that distributes up to $115,900 in awards to high school students. Click here for details.
Growing Up In America
Growing Up in America (GUA) is an annual art, essay and video contest that engages hundreds of Bay Area students. Click here for details.
Youth Speaks Poetry & Performance Programs
Youth Speaks runs poetry slams, open mics, and leadership programs for ages 13–19. Click here for details.
826 Valencia Youth Writing Program
A nonprofit dedicated to supporting students ages 6–18 with their writing skills and helping teachers inspire their students to write. Click here for details.
AAPI Festivals: Celebrating Together
Open to Bay Area youth ages 4–16, this art contest celebrates AAPI cultural heritage Click here for details.
Native Voices Anthology
A writing initiative for Native American middle and high school students in Sonoma County. Click here for details.
California Young Playwrights Contest
Encouraging middle and high school playwrights (under 19), this statewide contest invites original one-act plays. Click here for details.
Contra Costa Art & Writing Challenge
This annual competition encourages youth to reflect on social issues through essays and creative writing. Click here for details.