Do you have a high schooler who loves to write? We want to read their short stories! Encourage them to enter Omega Sci-Fi Project’s science-fiction writing contests by Feb.13 for a chance to win!
We’re seeking sci-fi short stories for our two writing contests: The Tomorrow Prize (for general science fiction) and The Green Feather Award (for eco-themed sci-fi that imagines positive solutions to environmental challenges).
From the rise of artificial intelligence to the threat of a dystopian society, life these days can feel more like science fiction than reality. The science-fiction genre empowers us to express our unique perspectives and imagine solutions to humanity’s greatest social and environmental challenges. That’s why Omega Sci-Fi Project encourages teen writers to ask: “What if?”
What if… high school was replaced by a virtual-reality simulation?
What if… the melting ice caps revealed an ancient alien artifact frozen in time?
What if… humans evolved to live underwater and built a society in the middle of the ocean?
What if…your prom date was determined by a biased algorithm?
Students should allow their imaginations to run wild! Science fiction expands upon current scientific achievements of all kinds, inventing new worlds to explore. Whether they’re interested in technology, space exploration, environmental science, biology, human psychology, sociology or the quantum physics of time travel, any type of science can be inspiration for a sci-fi short story.
Every year, we recognize our contest winners with cash prizes up to $250, publication in L.A. Parent magazine and a dramatic reading by celebrity guests at our culminating event, where students get to see their stories come to life on stage!
From a past honoree:
Our contests are 100% free to enter! Eligible stories should follow these guidelines:
- Science fiction (Not fantasy! Not sure what the difference is? Reach out!)
- Between 500 and 1,500 words in length
- Fully original work (No AI or fanfiction)
- Engage with social and scientific issues
- Provide a hopeful perspective on environmental issues (Green Feather Award only)
The deadline to submit is 11:59 p.m. on Feb.13.
To submit your sci-fi short story, or for more information, including submission guidelines and terms and conditions, visit our website at lightbringer.org/science-fiction-competitions.
Ciena Valenzuela-Peterson is Literary Arts Coordinator of the Light Bringer Project.
