Beloved Arise, a national organization dedicated to celebrating and empowering LGBTQIA+ youth of faith, is hosting our fourth annual Queer Youth of Faith National Essay Contest. Open to high school seniors residing in the United States, this essay contest awards $10,000 in scholarships and creates a platform for LGBTQ+ youth of any faith, religion, or spiritual community to share their stories
Essay Prompt
According to the Trevor Project (2022), one in five LGBTQ youth report that their religion or spirituality is important to them. As a queer person of faith, what traditions, rituals, and/or practices make you feel joy, peace, and a sense of belonging?
Contest requirements:
- High school seniors ages 16-20
- Resides in the United States
- Identifies as LGBTQ+ and a person of faith
- The Essay must be between 500-600 words
- Video entry is required to enter
Winning essays will:
- Demonstrate a creative writing style that makes the story come alive
- Reflect a fresh, authentic voice for queer youth of faith
- Present a compelling, memorable insight or unique point of view





Scholarship Value: $2,000
Awards Available: 5
Award Deadline: Register to View