Now Open: The Queen's Commonwealth Writing Competition 2026
- Kate McNab
- 30 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Theme: Common Ground: Better Together
The Commonwealth is one of the most diverse communities on earth. It stretches across continents and oceans, linking bustling cities, remote villages, small island states and vast nations. It encompasses countless languages, cultures, climates and lived experiences.
And yet, despite these differences, there is common ground.
The 2026 theme, Common Ground: Better Together, invites young writers to explore what unites us across the Commonwealth and how collaboration, understanding and shared purpose help us move forward together.
It’s about the connections that surprise us. The values that anchor us. The shared challenges that call us to act. And the hopes for the future.
Launch Video
The launch video includes inspiring individuals from across the Commonwealth. Included in this video is Dame Jacqueline Wilson DBE (Bestselling Children's book Author), Zoe Prinsloo (Founder of Save a Fishie and Children's Book Author), Pandora Onyedire (The Queen's Commonwealth Writing Competition 2025 Winner), Monica Galetti (Chef and MasterChef judge), Angellah Manda (Royal Commonwealth Society Commonwealth Youth and Gender Network Coordinator) and Keiran Healy (Royal Commonwealth Society Regional Coordinator for Europe).
We are honoured to have a special message from Her Majesty The Queen, the Royal Commonwealth Society’s Vice-Patron, on the launch of the competition:
“As we usher in a new chapter of this brilliant competition, I encourage you to join in and to reflect on the powerful bonds that unite us across the world.
Please pick up your pens and share your ideas. Good luck and I look forward to reading the winning entries from every region of our Commonwealth.”
- Camilla R
The competition offers young writers a range of imaginative and thought-provoking prompts, grouped into five key areas:
1. Sport & Community
2. Culture: Food, Music & Hobbies
3. Protecting the Environment & Our Natural World
4. Shared Identity, Responsibility & Common Ground
5. Language, Human Connection & Understanding
In a world that can often feel divided, Common Ground: Better Together is a reminder that difference does not prevent unity, it strengthens it. This competition isn’t just about writing. It’s about listening. It’s about imagining new futures. It’s about recognising that across continents and cultures, we are stronger together.
Whether you’re inspired by sport, storytelling, sustainability, shared identity or the power of language, this is your moment.
Pick up your pen. Find your common ground. And write about how we are better together.