Writing Contest

Winter Writing Contest 2025: Beyond the Frozen Door

A Challenge for Imaginative Young Writers

When the world outside is blanketed in snow, imagination takes flight.
This year, the Mensa Youth Winter Writing Contest invites young writers from Kindergarten to Grade 12 to step through the doorway between reality and wonder.

🪞 Prompt for All Grades

“On a winter day, you discover something unexpected — a door, a passage, or a hidden path that leads somewhere extraordinary. Describe what lies beyond it and how your journey changes what you believe about your world.”

Will your story lead to a hidden kingdom beneath the snow, a place where time stands still, or a realm that mirrors your own in magical ways?
Let your imagination open the door.

📅 Submission Deadline

All entries must be submitted by November 23rd.
Selected works from each age group will be published in the Mensa Youth Blog by November 26th, celebrating Canada’s most creative young minds.

How to Participate
To submit your story, you must be a Mensa Youth member.
Request the submission form by emailing mensagyc@mensayouth.ca .

✏️ Writing Guidelines by Age Group

Kindergarten – 50 – 120 words
• Simple sentences, imaginative ideas, and clear sequencing. Illustrations welcome.

Grades 1 – 2 – 150 – 300 words
• A complete story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Encourage description, dialogue, and creativity.

Grades 3 – 5 – 200 – 400 words
• Detailed descriptions, character action, and expressive vocabulary. Maintain flow and coherence.

Grades 6 – 8 – 300 – 600 words
• Strong imagery, clear transitions, and character motivation. Explore emotions and subtle meaning.

Grades 9 – 12 – 400 – 900 words
• Complex characters, symbolism, and thematic depth. Maintain polished grammar and consistent tone.

🌟 Recognition

Only the most captivating pieces from each age group will be selected for publication in our official Mensa Youth Blog— a true mark of distinction for young authors who dare to imagine what lies beyond the frozen door.

Let this winter be the season your words open worlds.

🏆 Previous Years' Qualifiers

Visit the Mensa Youth Blog to view previous years' qualifying entries.