Young people worldwide are invited to share their voices and creativity in the annual Never Such Innocence International Competition, which challenges youth to interpret the theme “In Someone Else’s Shoes.” The contest, open until February 27, 2026, welcomes poetry, visual art, and song from ages 9 to 18, providing a unique platform for self-expression and empathy.
Key Takeaways
- Competition theme focuses on understanding perspectives: "In Someone Else’s Shoes"
- Open to ages 9–18, with four distinct age categories
- Accepts poetry, artwork, and songs; each entry must be original and not AI-generated
- Entries close on February 27, 2026; winners announced by April 17, 2026
- Multiple languages accepted, with special consideration for inclusive participation
Competition Structure And Entry Details
Never Such Innocence splits participants into four age groups: 9-11, 11-14, 14-16, and 16-18. The overlap in age brackets ensures that students from equivalent school years compete fairly, with organizers retaining flexibility based on information in each entry form. Each individual or group may submit one entry per category, although entrants can participate in more than one medium (for example, both art and a poem).
Submissions are strictly required to reflect the annual theme, encouraging reflection on other people’s experiences and viewpoints. Judging is anonymous, with all entries identified only by a unique number and title; personal information remains separate for confidentiality.
Categories And Submission Guidelines
Poetry:
- Must feature a title and fit on one A4 page, typed at size 12 font
- Accepts handwritten or typed submissions
- Poetry in any language allowed, but non-English poems need a typed original and a voice recording
- AI-generated work will not be accepted
Artwork:
- Can include painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, or digital media
- Only original art accepted; AI-generated images prohibited
- Entries submitted via clear photos or scans; organizers may request the original for verification
Songs:
- Maximum length of four minutes
- Must be entirely original without AI involvement
- Judged on originality, melody, lyrics, and composition
- Songs can be in any language, but must include written lyrics and a recording
Entry Process And Important Dates
For entrants aged 15 and under, an adult must submit entries on their behalf. Each submission is treated with confidentiality and all personal data is securely managed according to privacy standards. There is no cost to enter the competition. By participating, creators retain copyright but grant organizers permission to publish and share their works globally.
Table: Key Competition Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Submission Deadline | February 27, 2026 |
| Winner Notification Deadline | April 17, 2026 |
Emphasizing Inclusion And Originality
Never Such Innocence encourages participants from diverse backgrounds, including those with special educational needs. Any relevant information can be shared confidentially through the entry process. The organization’s approach highlights creativity, inclusivity, and authenticity, making it one of the leading platforms for young voices in arts and literature.
With themes of empathy at its core and free entry, the competition is poised to inspire thoughtful and original work from a new generation of creators around the world.
