Reva’s piece stood out for its profound exploration of crossfire racism, linking it to cultural narratives and advocating for unity among marginalised groups.

Her work exemplifies the power of storytelling in addressing complex social issues.

She grounded her argument in relatable contexts and supported it with relevant data. Reva not only raises awareness but also calls for cultural understanding and solidarity, making her piece both refreshing and impactful.

Arnav highlighted the dynamics of teenage entrepreneurship and the importance of financial literacy. His integration of personal narratives with data-driven insights serves to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs.

“After all, every great journey starts with one step – and, in the world of investing, it’s probably the most important one you’ll ever make” – that’s Arnav’s motto and message for his peers.

Ashley impressed the judges with her original idea in Does “Harry Potter” have a passport?, where she critically examines the implications of cultural boycotts on Russian youth.

Her compelling argument highlights the paradox of promoting democracy while restricting access to international literature, showcasing her ability to tackle complex themes with clarity and depth.

Gavriella shined a light on the precarious situation of journalists in oppressive regimes in Journalism under threat.

“Independent reporting is about asking the hard questions. Probing deeper to find the truth. Holding those in power to account. It is fundamental to democracy, acting as a watchdog against an overmighty executive“. Gavriella’s compassionate narrative emphasises the alarming trend of unlawful detention, drawing attention to the broader crisis facing the press globally.

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Noa offered a passionate critique in Social media’s redefinition of “girlhood”, arguing that the trend commodifies misogyny under the guise of sisterhood.

“The most problematic trends that fall under the ‘girlhood’ umbrella – which has collectively gathered more than 1.3 billion views on TikTok – are probably ‘girl math’ and ‘girl dinner’”. Noa’s timely analysis resonates with current social media dynamics, making her piece both relevant and significant.

Samantha provided a well-researched overview of the South China Sea dispute, intertwining historical context with contemporary events.

“One of the longest-running and most complicated disputes is with China, over ownership of the West Philippine Sea and the various islands, reefs and waters within it“. Her bold narrative urges readers to recognize the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing territorial disputes, demonstrating her strong voice and commitment to social justice.

“In an age dominated by digital distractions, the act of reading becomes even more crucial. For Gen Z, embracing the habit of reading can serve as a bridge between the digital and the intellectual worlds, allowing them to harness the best of both realms“. Zirong Xu eloquently advocated for the revival of reading habits in a digital age filled with distractions.

He was able to weave personal narratives with historical context and underscored the profound impact of literature on individual lives and society.