My Mind Words Paper [Search results for trip] 

We just got back from yet another trip to the border town of Macará. It was the final leg of our year-long journey to obtain my resident visa. I have written a little about this process in previous posts, including the one about our trip to Quito last July and another about our trip to Peru last January. Well, last month, the migration office in Quito finally stamped my passport and I am now a permanent, legal resident of Ecuador. But, since I had originally entered the country as a tourist, I was now required to leave and re-enter again so that they could register me as a resident in the computer system (apparently that can only be done at the border, not in Quito). And, I was told, if I waited until after my old tourist visa expired (April 11) I would end up having to pay another $200 fine the next time I tried to leave the country. So we decided that a quick trip to Macará wouldn't be a bad idea (good thing it is only a 4 hour drive away).

I was a little worried about taking the trip because we are in the middle of the rainy season and landslides are quite common. A bad one can block the roads for several days. Luckily, the day we chose to drive down it did not rain and all the landslides from the previous weeks rain had been cleared. It was the first time that I had been in that area during the rainy season and the change was amazing. All the trees had green leaves and there were flowers and new plant growth everywhere. The hills, which I'm used to seeing as dry and brown, were green and exuberant. It looked a lot more like the tropical rainforest than the bosque seco (dry forest).

On the way down to Macará, discussed how to handle the border crossing. I needed to get a stamp from both the Ecuadorian side as well as the Peruvian side. We had heard that officially I was supposed to spend at least 24 hours outside of the country, but neither of us wanted to do that again. Everyone had given us advice on what to do; we should drive to the nearest city in Peru and eat lunch and then go back; we should cross the border and then walk back to Macará, spend the night in a hotel, and then walk back over the border the next day and act like we were coming from Peru; we should bribe the guards; etc. We couldn't decide what was best, so we decided to just go to the border and see what happened. We had brought some money with us to bribe the border guards if necessary, even though Lucho admited that he was not very good at doing that kind of stuff.

The first official we spoke to, on the Ecuadorian side, was typically unfriendly and unhelpful, but after Lucho asked if his boss was in town he seemed to lighten up a little (probably wondering if we knew him or not) and told us that he could help us so long as we were able to get the stamp from the Peruvian side. So we crossed the international bridge over the Macará river (which was brown and swollen due to the rains - I held on to Christina's hand very tightly) and made our way to the Peruvian border office. Lucho did all the talking while Christina and I watched the angry river below. Lucho asked the guard if he would stamp my passport with an entrance and exit at the same time. Then he pulled out a $10 Peruvian sole note (worth about $3) and told the guy that he was welcome to keep it for his trouble. The guy looked at it and asked, "Don't you have one of those, but in dollars?" Luckily, we did. So he gave us the needed stamps, and we headed over to the Ecuadorian side. The official there stamped my passport and we gave him $5 for his trouble (we were going to give him the $10 bill, but we had already given it to the Peruvian guy so he was out of luck on that one). Success!!!

We ended up buying a 100 pound bag of rice from them for $30. The rice from Macará is very good and now we have enough to supply us, and the rest of Lucho's family, for several months.
It felt great to get all that paperwork out of the way. But when I looked at my U.S. Passport the next day I realized that it expires this August (I had forgotten all about it while I was working on my Ecuadorian paperwork). So now we're planning a trip to visit the U.S. Consulate in Guayaquil. I guess it will never end...

Deadline: 27 May 2011

Prize Details

Day 1 Johannesburg/ Kruger National Park

Depart the urban wilds of Johannesburg and discover the vast plains of the Kruger National Park where the Big Five roam. The park is home to 150 species of mammals, including cheetahs, lions, zebras and aardvarks. The staggering amount of bird species, plus the wide variety of insects and reptiles make this the ultimate wildlife experience. Jump on board an open safari vehicle to explore the park in search if iconic animals. At night, head out once more for a sunset safari drive and keep eyes peeled for night predators and other nocturnal animals.

Day 2 Kruger National Park

Depart at first light for an entire day’s game viewing. With luck there will be close encounters with lions, elephants and even a giraffe or two. Settle for the evening in a centrally located campsite and swap tales around the campfire.

Day 3 Greater Kruger National Park

Enjoy another full day of game-viewing in Kruger before travelling to a private reserve in the late afternoon. In the evening, settle into a lodge and enjoy a drink and a tasty traditional dinner.

Day 4 Greater Kruger National Park/ Johannesburg

Complete the safari experience with an early morning nature walk. Explore the wilderness one last time with a field guide and learn how to track wild animals. Sadly, it’s then time to bid the African wilderness farewell. Travel along the Drakensberg Escarpment and see the spectacular Three Rondavels while overlooking the awesome Blyde River Canyon. Continue on to Johannesburg where this short but thrilling adventure ends.

* A two night stay at Outlook Lodge & Safari’s which can be used before or after the safari experience with transportation provided.

Contest Instructions

The best creative virtual eco journal entry will win the prize with public voting. Select any of the safari’s on the ecoAfrica website and create a virtual diary of your eco adventure. Once all entries have been received an internal jury will decide on the top 3 – of the top 3 it will be left to the public to decide who wins the prize.

Prize Eligibility

Only persons who are at least 18 years of age can enter.

About the Company

Your premier one-stop shop for all your travel requirements within South Africa, from leisure to corporates we can assist with your every need.

Terms and Conditions for ecoAfrica Travel

• Booking must occur within period 13/06/2011 – 31/07/2011.
• Travel must occur within period 13/06/2011 – 31/12/2011.
• (trip must completed by 31/12/2011)

1. Entry into this promotion is deemed acceptance of these Conditions of Entry. Entry is via
registration and submission of a creative essay.

2. Entry is free and open to all global residents, except where prohibited by law, aged 18
years or older. Employees and immediate families ecoAfrica Travel and suppliers, providers
and agencies associated with this promotion are ineligible to enter.

3. The competition commences 01 April 2011 and closes 27 May 2011 at 14h30 GMT.

4. To enter the promotion, eligible entrants must write a creative essay on “Your virtual diary eco adventure safari”, based on one of the safaris available on ecoAfrica.com

5. Submitted essays might be used for future marketing (either in extracts or in its entirety).

6. Winners will be informed via email and facebook.

7. Entrants can only enter in their own name. ecoAfrica Travel, Intrepid Travel and Outlook Lodge & Safari’s reserves the right to request proof of residency at the stated address and identification for verification before issuing the prize.

8. Incomplete or incomprehensible entries will be deemed invalid. Entries containing and/or
depicting illegal, sexually explicit or morally offensive content will be ineligible to enter. The
Promoter’s decision to disqualify an entry is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

9. No responsibility will be taken for lost, late or misdirected entries.

10. The winning entry will win an Intrepid Bundu Kruger Express Camping trip – a three night, four day safari experience and a two night stay at Outlook Lodge & Safari’s including breakfast.

11. The trip must be booked with Eco Africa and travel to commence before 31 December 2011. No extension is available.

12. The prize is not transferable or exchangeable and cannot be taken as cash.

13. The trip is subject to availability and confirmation by Intrepid Bundu and Outlook Lodge & Safari’s. Blackout periods may apply. Prize is not valid during high season, local school holidays or over long weekends and is neither transferable nor negotiable.

14. This prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other discounts or special offers.

15. All international airfares, airline taxes, domestic airfares if required, any additional meals,
any extra sightseeing or activities, any additional accommodation, personal spending money,
passports, travel visas required, transport to and from departure point, travel insurance, single
supplement and all other ancillary costs, as well as obtaining any of these, are the
responsibility of the winner and is not included in the prize.

16. In the event of war, terrorism, state of emergency, disaster or any other circumstance
beyond the control of the Promoter, the Promoter reserves the right to either provide an
alternative travel destination to the same value as the original prize or, subject to any
applicable laws or written directions made under applicable legislation, to cancel, terminate,
modify or suspend the promotion.

17. Travel must be arranged by the winner contacting ecoAfrica Travel.

Contact Information:

For inquiries: call +27 (21) 555 4152

For submissions: enter contest here

Website: http://www.ecoafrica.com/

Deadline: 1 October 2011

Back in 1990, food enthusiast and advocate K. Dun Gifford started a nonprofit educational organization called Oldways to change the way people eat. He believed that positive and practical solutions, grounded in science, traditions and delicious foods and drinks, would help address the threatening tsunami of chronic diseases.

Gifford invited others intrigued by his vision – scientists, chefs, restaurateurs, cookbook authors, and journalists -- to join him at the Oldways Table to address this important challenge. By documenting and educating others about the healthy “old ways,” Oldways and its partners have made strides toward changing the way people eat.

As a tribute to our founder and visionary who died in May 2010, Oldways announces the K. Dun Gifford Journalism Award, an annual prize to recognize and honor the important role of communications in changing the way people eat.

While journalism has changed in the past two decades with media consolidations, entry into the digital age, the advent of blogs and more, its influence on educating people everywhere about the importance of seeking out the joys and pleasures of good food and drinks is stronger than ever.

The Grand Prize Winner of the Award, selected by a jury including journalists Mimi Sheraton, Judith Weinraub and David Rosengarten, plus Dun’s daughter, Apple Gifford, and Oldways president Sara Baer-Sinnott, will receive a weeklong, all expense paid trip to a region of the world selected by Oldways and reflected in each year’s rotating subject focus.

The 2011 winner will visit the beautiful Mediterranean Region where he or she is free to explore the culture, food, and atmosphere of the location freely, with no expectations or assignments.

RULES: HOW YOU CAN BE CONSIDERED FOR THE K. DUN GIFFORD AWARD

Who is Eligible / How to Enter

* The competition is open to all reporters (print, online & broadcast), freelancers and bloggers.
* Each journalist may submit one (1) piece reflecting the designated subject (i.e., Mediterranean Diet in 2011). To be eligible for consideration, pieces must meet these criteria:
o Must be well-written / well-produced.
o Must have been published or aired during the period from January 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011.
o Must be related to this year's selected subject matter. The inaugural 2011 K. Dun Gifford Journalism Award will celebrate the Mediterranean Diet. Each year our subject matter will rotate to cover a topic we feel passionately about: Mediterranean Diet, Asian Diet, Latino Foods, Whole Grains, Pasta, Cheese, etc.
o Must reflect one or more of Oldways' founding principles: to be positive, practical, science-based, and tradition-based.
o Must celebrate the pleasures of the table.

Submissions

* Entries shall be labeled with name of article/segment, journalist’s name, affiliation, phone, email address, and street address. Broadcast entires should be submitted via CD or email
* Send entries by mail or email to:
o mail: K. Dun Gifford Journalism Award, c/o Oldways, 266 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02116
o email: GiffordAward@oldwayspt.org
* All entries must be postmarked or emailed by October 1, 2011.

Judging and Prizes

* Winner will be announced in December 2011.
* A judging jury including Mimi Sheraton, Judith Weinraub, Apple Gifford, David Rosengarten and Sara Baer-Sinnott, President, Oldways, will select the winning entry based on criteria above. The judges’ decision is final.
* The Prize is a fully paid, week trip to a location reflected in that year’s subject and designated at the sole discretion of Oldways. For our inaugural 2011 contest focused on the Mediterranean Diet, the winner will receive a trip (including coach airfare, accommodations, local transportation and a daily stipend to cover meals) to the Mediterranean region.

Other Important Rules

* By submitting an entry, entrants affirm that they are the rightful author/creator of their piece and that they have not borrowed, stolen or otherwise used copyrighted or intellectual property from another.
* There is no transfer of prize.
* Prize must be redeemed within a one-year period, starting upon award notification. Flight and accommodations to be arranged through Oldways. Blackout dates may apply as designated by our partner airline/hotel.
* Prize is taxable to the recipient, and the recipient is responsible for all taxes. Winner must provide his or her tax identification number to Oldways. Oldways will be issuing a Form 1099-MISC.

These are the complete and official rules of the 2011 K. Dun Gifford Journalism Prize.

Contact Information:

For inquiries: rachel@oldwayspt.org

For submissions: GiffordAward@oldwayspt.org

Website: http://www.oldwayspt.org

Deadline: 26 August 2011

Applications are invited from across the Federal Republic of Nigeria to participate in a national essay competition organized by the above NGO.

Primary

1. Full scholarships (see details) to tertiary level of study at any Federal or State institution within Nigeria for the top 15 essay writers.
2. Day trip (by air) with parent/guardian to the Federal Capital Territory and visits to places of interest for 1st prize winner.
3. Desktop computers to 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners.
4. Books, educational materials and cash gifts to best 50 essay writers.

Secondary

1. Full scholarships (see details) to tertiary level of study at any Federal or State institution within Nigeria for top 15 essay writers.
2. Trip to the United Kingdom and places of interest e.g. House of Parliament, Buckingham Palace etc. for 1st prize winner.
3. Desktop or laptop computers to 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners.
4. Books, educational materials and cash gifts to best 50 essay writers.
5. Other consolatory prizes include mobile telephones and call units.

Tertiary

1. Full scholarships (see details) to tertiary level of study at any Federal or State institution within Nigeria for top 10 essay writers.
2. Trip to the United Kingdom and places of interest e.g. House of Parliament, Buckingham Palace etc. for 1st prize winner
3. 6-12 month internships in organizations/companies within Nigeria for top 10 essay writers
3. Laptop computers to top 10 essay writers.
4. Books, educational materials and cash gifts to best 50 essay writers.
5. Other consolatory prizes include mobile telephones and call units. ts.

How to Apply

Please observe the following four steps to apply

1. Applicants MUST prepare a ‘personal information sheet’ detailing the applicant’s

• Surname
• First name and other names
• Full address
• Date of birth and age
• Sex
• State of origin (and Local government area)
• School or Institution of learning
• Contact telephone number
• Next of kin

For applicants in tertiary institutions please also include:

• Course of study
• Department and faculty
• Present year/level of study
• Name of your course representative and HOD

2. Write an essay (this must be handwritten) on the topic (relevant to your level of study) listed on the right pane.

3. Each applicant MUST pay an application fee

The competition application fees are as follows:

• Primary Pupils N500
• Secondary Students N500
• Tertiary Undergraduates N500

• Guaranty Trust Bank Acc name: EC2011 Acc no: 421-420-753-6114
• United Bank of Africa Acc name: Basic Trust (EC2011) Acc no: 101-555-9459
• Intercontinental Bank Acc name: Basic Trust (EC2011) Acc no: 010-494-4146

1. Your personal information sheet (please type the personal information)
2. Your essay (scanned and must NOT exceed 2MB)
3. Bank name and Teller number (include in the personal information sheet) .

You can either post the above to EC2011, P O Box 1689, Sapon, Abeokuta, Ogun State
or email copies to EC2011@basictrust.org.ng Please do not do both.

Competition Rules & Regulations

1. Applicants must be studying in primary, secondary or tertiary institutions within Nigeria

2. This competition is not open to persons studying outside the Federal Republic of Nigeria

3. Applicants must be legally resident in the Federal Republic of Nigeria

4. Individuals that have previously won a national essay competition scholarship are not eligible to compete at any level in EC2011

5. Applicants must not be over the age of 30 years on August 31, 2011

6. Applicants can only make one application each. Multiple applications will disqualify applicants

7. Applicants must follow the EC2011 application procedure closely or their application will be invalidated

8. Applicants cannot be related to EC2011 judges or BASIC Trust International directors/Trustees

9. Applicants cannot be in the employment of BASIC Trust International or official EC2011 sponsors

10. Applicants should not have been barred from travel into the nations listed in the winning prizes

11. Applicants understand and accept that their identities, photographic images and other personal information may be used by BASIC Trust International [West Africa] and/or EC2011 for publicity purposes

12. W12. Where applicants are below sixteen years old [16 years], their parents/guardians must give their consent to their application and the competition rules and regulations

13. Falsification of any details on an application will nullify it

14. All entries for EC2011 must be received by the set closing date to be valid

15. EC2011 does not accept responsibility for any applications that go missing in the post or otherwise

16. Applicants confirm that they actually conceived and wrote the essay submitted, that it has not been previously published in any form and that they are not violating any copyrights

17. Any quotations or copyrighted material used in essays must be identified properly. Failure to acknowledge such material will result in a disqualification

18. All essays must be hand written, very legible and be signed off by the applicant

19. All essays must be written on A4 sized white paper

20. Essays must be written in English (and not in any other language) to be accepted as valid for
the purpose of EC2011

Essay Topics

Primary Level: ‘Why I think my village should be the capital city of my country.’ (150-200 words)

Secondary Level: ‘The advice I would give my President if I had a half hour private audience with him.’ (300-450 words)

Tertiary Level: ‘What will be the greatest challenge facing your generation over the next decade’ (500-750 words)

Closing Date

All applications MUST be received by the close of business on 26th of August, 2011

For Enquiries

The EC2011 Competition Coordinator - 07063107961 / (39) 770323 or EC2011@basictrust.org.ng

The BTI Liaison Officer - 08033285592 or liaison@basictrust.org.ng

Contact Information:

For inquiries: EC2011@basictrust.org.ng or liaison@basictrust.org.ng

For submissions: EC2011@basictrust.org.ng

Website: http://www.basictrust.org.ng

Deadline: 30 June 2012

The 2011 Annual Writing Competition is going to be fun and exciting! This year’s themes are different for both adults and kids…so there’s more options to let your creativity flow.
Go wild and let your thoughts and imagination run free.

This is YOUR chance to explore South Africa’s National Parks...with words and photos!

Share your thoughts or questions on the official SANParks Annual Writing Competition facebook fan page!

There are separate themes for Adults and children. These stories/poems/essays must be based on real-life experiences in one of the 19 National Parks in South Africa.

Children

Categories

- Stories (ages 8 - 12): real account
- Stories (ages 13 - 17): real account

- Poetry (ages 8 - 12): 5-10 words
- Poetry (ages 13 - 17): (40– 150 words)

- Essays (2 000 words)

Themes (There are 3 themes that you can tackle for all the children categories)

1. My cool adventure driving through the parks with my dad/mom - the driver :)

2. Most memorable experience at any of the National Parks…begins with: ”I could never have imagined my adventure in the wild…"

3. Describe your first experience at Table Mountain....beginning with these 2 sentences:
- “As I stood at the bottom of the magnificent Table Mountain… “
- “My heart beat a little faster as I stepped onto the cableway….”

Adults

Categories

- Short Stories (1 000 - 2 500 words): real account

- Essays (4 000 words)

- Poetry (50– 150 words)

Themes (There are 2 themes that you can tackle for all the adult categories)

1) Memorable wildlife adventures
2) My 4x4 experiences

Trip reports (accounts of real trips to the Parks)

Material submitted in this category should comprise of an engagingly written account/report of a trip to a SANParks park over the last 12 months. Reports in this category should convey a strong sense of place. **Trip reports published on our forums will be accepted.**
1) Memorable wildlife adventures
2) My 4x4 experiences

You need to reflect passion for wildlife, our heritage – so let your words and images be your canvas :)

Prizes

Winners will receive R1 000 each to be utilised for accommodation during a mid-week break. Prizes must be redeemed within 6 months from the date of issue.

Competition Rules

Your entry/entries must make reference to the competition theme.

Your entry/entries must be original, in English, unpublished and not accepted by any other publisher or producer at the time of submission.

This is an online initiative and as such only electronic copy will be accepted.

Entrants should submit their writing via e-mail as attached word documents to editor@sanparks.org with the subject line of the e-mail clearly stating: Writing Competition and Category (e.g. 2011 Writing Competition: Poetry).

Each word document should also be prefaced by the following information.
Name: Joe Blob
Postal Address: P.O. Box xyz
Physical Address
Nationality: South African
Cellphone/mobile (if a minor - please send through guardian's number): 6843754733
Land Line: 7632654p48
E-mail: xyz@email.com
Category: Poetry
Word Count: 157

You can enter more than one piece of writing. If you do however; each piece must have a category clearly indicated in the upper left-hand corner. This information will be entered into our database and confirmation of receipt will be sent to you.

Judging & Notification

Entries accepted for display are determined at the discretion of the Web Content Editor.

Every entry will be read by the Web Content Editor. The Web Content Editor reserves the right to re-categorise entries.

The entries in each category deemed suitable for publication will be made available on the SANParks website, where they will be publicly judged in an electronic poll (on the Forums), hosted on the SANParks site. Voters will be required to fill a simple electronic voting form.
You will receive notification of the receipt of your manuscript via e-mail.
Entries must be received by 12 noon 30 June 2012.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For inquiries: editor@sanparks.org

For submissions: editor@sanparks.org

Website: http://sanparks.org.za

Deadline: 31 October 2012

(Note: The competition is open to travelers worldwide aged 18 and over.)

Write and tell us about The place you didn't want to be. It could have been a long, tortuous journey, an embarrassing moment or a dangerous situation. Perhaps you were presented with food you'd rather not eat or a bed you'd rather not sleep in.

Make us laugh, cry, sympathise or cringe.

Entries should be between 350-750 words in length and your own original work. Please give your article a title. Entries that are shorter or longer, or contain copied work will not be considered. Please paste your text on to the email body, do not send attachments.

Entries should be sent to: competition@puretravel.com, with your name, e-mail and telephone number by Wednesday 31st October 2012. All entries will be posted on the PureTravel web site.

10 articles will then be selected by a panel and these pieces will be open for public voting until Friday 30th November 2012.

The three most popular will then be judged by a professional Travel writer and the winner announced on Friday 14th December.

THE JUDGE: JEREMY LAZELL

Jeremy Lazell worked for eight years as a trekking guide before turning to writing, a decision he's had plenty of time to regret while sleeping in a hammock 200ft up in the Borneo rainforest for the Sunday Times, all but drowning in Scotland while rafting for GQ, and hooking nothing but his own cheek while fishing in Belize for Food & Travel. Based at the foot of the Scottish Highlands, where he lives with his wife and three boys, Jeremy writes about 90% of his material for the Sunday Times Travel Section, specialising in adventure travel, family holidays, and whatever round-ups help pay the bills. He has also worked for Conde Nast Traveller and Esquire magazines.

All the entries to the competition will be loaded onto the PureTravel web site for you to enjoy, as per our Terms and Conditions.

PRIZES

The winner will receive £1,000 or US$1,500.

The 2011 winner Sam Clark wrote: "The money came in a few days ago. You were right, it is a good start to the New Year. The 1,500 dollars is going to my next adventure down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. On my bike trip I was following Lewis and Clark's route across North America, and this trip is tribute to John W. Powell's descent down the Grand. The money came just in time to make the next adventure possible. Thanks so much!"

In 2012, that could be you!

The winning article will also be published in "Geographical" magazine, the official magazine of the Royal Geographical Society. To see the 2010 winning entry in print, please look at our PureTravel blog..

As part of their support, Geographical is offering a subscription discount to those interested in travel writing. The magazine is a useful resource of information on the world and features excellent travel articles.

Entries will all be posted on the PureTravel web site. Your name will be published with your article, please tell us if you wish to have this withheld. Please note that the e-mail/phone number is for our use only and will not be published online.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

1. The competition is open to travelers worldwide aged 18 and over, with the exception of employees of PureTravel and Geographical magazine, their immediate families, agents, or anyone else associated with administration of this promotion.

2. Closing date for receipt of all entries is 31th October 2012.

3. There is one prize consisting of a £1,000 cheque, or US$1,500. The winning article will be published in "Geographical" magazine.

4. To enter, send your article of between 350–750 words, to competition@puretravel.com with your name, email address and telephone number. Please paste your text on to the email body, do not send attachments. Alternatively, you can also enter via post by sending your entry to: PureTravel Travel Encounters Competition, Realworld Travel, The Royal, 25 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF.

5. The initial shortlist of 10 will be selected on merit by a panel of judges appointed by PureTravel, including at least one independent judge (i.e. not an employee of either company). The winner will be selected by one independent judge.

6. Online voting will start on the Friday 9th November 2012 and finish on Friday 30th November 2012. To vote you must register for the free PureTravel.com newsletter. Your registration e-mail will be your voting signature. Only one vote per person. Please note that there is an opt-out of this newsletter on every issue.

7. The winner will be informed by Friday 14th December 2012 and the result published on the web site.

8. PureTravel will have the right to publish all entries on its web site. Geographical magazine will have the publishing rights on the winning article. Articles will be removed from the PureTravel web site on request once the competition is over.

9. Entries limited to one per person.

10. E-mail addresses will be only be used by PureTravel for their own newsletter which can be opted out of. They will not be disclosed to any other parties.

11. There is no alternative to the prize offered and the prizes are non–transferable.

12. If for any reason a winner is unable to take the prize as offered, the Promoter reserves the right to award the prize to the next best entry.

13. The judge's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

14. The winners agree to participate in any reasonable publicity required by the Promoter.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For queries/ submissions: competition@puretravel.com

Website: http://www.puretravel.com

Deadline: 2 April 2012

Vermont Studio Center awards a number of fellowships for 8-week residencies to international artists from specific countries through the generous support of the Educational Foundation of America and the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation. Each residency award provides round-trip air travel, travelers health insurance, an exhibition in the Red Mill Gallery, and other benefits depending on the award.

Apply online using either Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Safari. Or download and mail in the application from our website. Complete the fellowship section by listing the April 2 deadline and write "EFA Fellowships" or "RSC Fellowships" in the special fellowship box. The application fee is waived for the April 2, 2012 International Fellowship deadline. To waive the application fee, enter "VSC 4/2/2012" in the fee code box during checkout.

FELLOWSHIP WINNERS RECEIVE:

• 8-week VSC residency
• Housing/Meals
• Travelers health insurance
• Private studio space
• Round-trip travel
• Red Mill Gallery exhibition

For inquiries: info@vermontstudiocenter.org

For submissions: apply online here

Website: http://www.vermontstudiocenter.org

Deadline: 15 June 2012

Established in 1998 by Thomson Reuters Foundation and IUCN, the Award aims to raise global awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues by encouraging high standards in environmental reporting worldwide.

THE PRIZE

The winner of the 2012 IUCN - Thomson Reuters Environmental Media Award will receive an all expenses paid trip to Jeju Island, South Korea to attend IUCN's 2012 World Conservation Congress, the world’s leading summit on the environment from 6 to 15 September 2012.

HOW TO ENTER

The 2012 IUCN -Thomson Reuters Media Award is open to journalists and writers across the world, writing for any publication, website or blog. To enter, simply submit your article on our Facebook page between 15 May and 15 June and then get your friends and colleagues to vote for you.

HOW TO VOTE

The first time you vote, you'll need to click on "Connect to vote" and then to allow the application. After that, just click on "Vote" to vote for your favourite article — you can vote once per day between 15 May and 15 June 2012.

THE WINNER

The competition closes at 17:00 CET on 15 June 2012.The article with the most votes will be deemed the winner. IUCN reserves the right to disqualify inappropriate or offensive entries. The winner will be announced on 1 July 2012.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• Any writer/blogger/journalist over the age of 18 is eligible to enter the Award.
• The competition is open to individuals only.
• To be eligible, your entry must include: (a) article title, (b) an article up to 450 words
• Each entrant may submit only one entry
• Articles may be submitted only in English.
• Only entries published or posted on-line in the Facebook page designated by IUCN, between 15 May and 15 June are eligible.
• The entry with the most “Votes” at the close of the competition at 17:00 CET on 15 June 2012 will be deemed the winner.
• IUCN and Thomson Reuters reserve the right to disqualify any entries deemed inappropriate or offensive.
• Employees of IUCN and the Thomson Reuters Foundation are not permitted to enter.
• Entrants are not permitted to submit articles published by IUCN or Thomson Reuters, but may submit their own articles previously published by other organizations/media outlets.
• The winner will be announced on Monday, 1 July 2012.
• The winner will receive an all expenses paid trip to Jeju Island, Korea to attend the IUCN World Conservation Congress from 6 to 15 September including economy airfare, hotel accommodation, daily meal allowance (all within limits established by IUCN) and media accreditation for the World Conservation Congress Forum. The prize may not be converted into cash. If the winner is unable to travel or otherwise participate in the IUCN World Conservation Congress for all or part of the period 6 to 15 September 2012, then the prize will be awarded to the second most liked article.

• That you own the copyright for your article and grant IUCN the right to use it in its publications, websites and/or in promotional material connected to this competition.
• That you own the copyright of any photograph included in your entry or have the permission of the copyright owner to use it and for IUCN to use it.
• That you accept these terms and conditions.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For queries: contact Gillian Eborn at gillian.eborn@iucn.org or call +41 (0)22 999 0233

For submissions: post your entries on the IUCN FB competition page

Website: http://www.iucn.org/

Deadline: 18 May 2012

Submit your poetry to the 4th BN Poetry Award. This year’s theme is MUSIC

Guidelines:

• Ugandan women resident in Uganda and above 18 years can participate. Send up to a maximum of 3 previously unpublished poems to bnpoetryaward@mail.com under the theme of Music.

• Poems should not be more than 40 lines long, typed in Times New Roman, single spaced and sent as one attachment. The second attachment should have the poet’s name, email address and phone number, along with the titles of poems. Do Not submit poems with your names on them.

PRIZES:

• The first three will win an all-expenses paid trip to the Storymoja Hay Festival in Nairobi from 14 to 16 September 2012 and meet some of the movers and shakers of the literary world
• First cash prize, 500 US Dollars
• Second cash prize 300 US Dollars and
• Third cash prize 200 US Dollars
• Poetry journals for the first ten

The deadline for submissions is May 18 2012. For more information, call +256 704355466.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For inquiries: call +256 704355466

For submissions: bnpoetryaward@mail.com

Website: http://www.bnpoetryaward.co.ug

Deadline: 26 March 2012

Are you the perfect person to present from London during the 2012 Olympic?

Do you want to report from London during the biggest sporting event on the planet? MOFILM is giving you a chance to get your entry in early and be one of Samsung's Global Bloggers on the ground at the Olympic Games.

Samsung is about to run a contest to bring 54 people from around the world to blog and vlog about London during the 2012 Olympic Games, it's not so much about the sport but the impact this great event will have on one of the greatest cities on earth.

The contest is hosted on MSN and opens on the 26th March. Through MOFILM you have the chance to get a head start on the contest and to get your entries in from the very start of the contest.

To enter you just need to record a 30 second film, in English, about why you should be a Samsung Global Blogger. This is not about the production values but the content and getting the right person.

Upload your film as usual to MOFILM, we'll provide feedback and send you the details about how you can then upload to the MSN Samsung site ahead of everyone else.

THE PRIZE

A return trip to London which includes

• Return travel from the winner's country of residence or place of residence
• 9 or 10 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast in the hotel
• VISA where required
• A daily allowance
• A minimum of one ticket shall be provided to an Olympic Games event. The precise event(s) and date(s) are to be confirmed
• Each Samsung Global Blogger will be provided with a Samsung wireless mobile product The opportunity to have your written reports, videos and articles published on Samsung websites including the Samsung Global Blogger site hosted on MSN, blogs and social media sites.
• The opportunity to have your work showcased in the site round up shows.

By entering into this contest you acknowledge and agree the following terms and conditions. If you do not agree to these terms do not enter or upload your contest submission. Mofilm reserves the right to change the terms, conditions and rules of this agreement under which the site is offered.

CONTEST SCHEDULE:

You may enter the Contest between 12:00:00 Greenwich Mean Time ("GMT") on March 13 2012 and 12:00:00 GMT on March 26 2012 ("Contest Period" which may be subject to change without notice).

TO ENTER:

To enter the Contest, go to http://www.mofilm.com/ ("Website") during the Contest Period. To register, follow the on-screen directions to properly complete and submit a registration form for the Contest. You will then be sent an email which will include a link to confirm your email address. If you have already registered you can login with your username and password you first registered with. When prompted you will be asked to upload your original Submission to the Site.

Before you will be allowed to upload you must expressly agree and consent to be bound by all the terms and conditions of the mofilm terms of service and of the mofilm privacy policy if you do not agree to any of these terms please do not use the website or enter the contest.

Before uploading the Submission you will be required to agree specifically that:

(a) you have read or have had these Official Rules and the Terms and Conditions of Upload read to you and you are in agreement with these terms;

(b) you are over the age of 18 at the date of entry;

(c) you personally created, wrote and produced your Submission and you have received permission for the use of the image/likeness of any and all identifiable persons appearing in your Submission and confirm MOFILM or Participating Brands permission to use his or her image/likeness if your Submission is selected as a Finalist in the Contest;

(d) you will not upload the same or similar entry in the same contest;

(e) you will not submit an entry previously submitted to a MOFILM competition, any other competition or content that has previously been published online or other distribution channels;

(f) uploading your video to another website e.g. YouTube, Facebook, Twitter or any other website will void your entry unless you have express permission from MOFILM to do so;

(g) nothing establishes an employer/employee relationship with the Participating Brand and you are solely a contestant in the Competition, and are acting voluntarily, using your own time and resources to create your entry for the Contest.

Submissions that do not include all required information and adhere to the Official Rules will be considered void.

CREATIVE ASSIGNMENT:

Participating brands all have different creative assignments ("The Brief"). Please refer to each creative assignment at http://www.mofilm.com

Your submission should be in commercial form consistent with the Official Rules.

JUDGING REQUIREMENTS:

Unless otherwise stated in The Brief the Judging Criteria ("Judging Criteria") is as follows:
1. Originality and Creativity - 50%
2. Adherence to Creative Assignment - 50%

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

A Video File must be submitted - the Video file (s) must be no more than the maximum duration stated in the Competition Brief (all copyrighted material will be removed).

The Video file size should be kept at or under 100 MB for quicker upload/encoding time (max file size is 300MB). Video Files must be provided in one of the following file formats: .MPG; .MOV; .AVI; .WMV; .MP4; .M4V

Finalists may be asked to provide the original audio and video files used during production of the entry for broadcast purposes. This may include uncompressed QuickTime files, final audio mix and/or separate audio tracks for dialogue, music, and effects. These items are not mandatory to become a Finalist

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Submission must be primarily in English or subtitled.

Once uploaded, Submission will not be returned. MOFILM or Participating Brands may, in its sole discretion, remove, delete and/or forfeit Submission it deems inappropriate or otherwise non-compliant with the Contest.

SELECTION OF WINNERS:

Finalist Submissions will be selected by a judging process in which a designated panel of judges from each brand ("Judges") will evaluate each eligible Submission based on the judging criteria set forth above. During each judging period, the judges will review all shortlisted entries and will choose winners and runners up as described in the competition web page at http://www.mofilm.com. The Finalist Submissions will be posted for the public at http://www.mofilm.com/. All Finalists are subject to verification, including without limitation, verification of eligibility, compliance with these Official Rules and completion of a Creative Assignment Agreement and/or such other release forms. The decision of the judges will be final and binding in all matters; no entrant will have the right to challenge the verdict and the judges will not engage in any conversation or explanation regarding their decision.

Where the competition includes an additional judging process at the indicated event or festival the votes will be collated for judging by an independent judging panel. Submissions will be judged on the criteria outlined in Rule 4 above.

WINNER NOTIFICATION:

Winners will be notified by telephone, mail and/or email in MOFILM's sole discretion. If attempted notification is returned as undeliverable, if a Finalist cannot be verified, or if Finalist is otherwise unable to accept prize, prize will be forfeited and may be awarded to an alternate Finalist provided sufficient time remains, in Participating Brand's discretion.

FINALIST PRIZES:

The prizes shall be listed on the MOFILM website and may be subject to alteration without notification.

A full winner's list will be made available six weeks after the competition date.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For submissions: click here

Website: http://www.mofilm.com

Deadline: 30 September 2012

Organization: The Third Bureau, State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China, Shanghai Library, Shanghai International Culture Association

Co-organization: Changning District Library

Contact: Ms. JIN Jing (jjin@libnet.sh.cn)

Postal address: Room 1310, Shanghai Library, 1555 Huai Hai (M.) Rd., 200031, Shanghai, China
Tel: +86. 21. 6445 4500 Fax: +86. 21. 6445 5006

FIRST CALL FOR PAPERS AND PARTICIPATION

We sincerely invite you to participate in the second 'Shanghai Get-together' writing contest by submitting your works on the topics of China, its history, culture, language and people.

The first ‘Shanghai Get-together’ was held in 2010. Works written by the readers from 14 countries/regions, with different languages and cultural perspectives, got together in Shanghai, and thus bringing high achievements in cultural communication.

This year, the contest is being arranged again as a stage to promote cultural exchange between China and other countries/cities. People are welcome to write about China, its history, culture, language and people, from an outsider’s eyes. An invitation will be issued to top winners to deliver a short speech on their works.

ELIGIBILITY/TOPICS

a) The contest is open to all those who are interested in China and Chinese culture.
b) Entrants are expected to write book reviews or comments on China and/or its language, people and culture; tell about personal experience or stories studying/working/living/travelling in China and/or Shanghai in particular; express thoughts or understanding of Chinese culture and/or its relationship with other cultures. All works that related to China and Chinese culture are welcomed.
c) Genre of writing is not limited.
d) Maximum Length: 3000 words (Chinese); 5000 words (English).

SELECTION OF WINNERS/AWARDS

a) 20 top entries will be selected by a panel of professional judges in October 2012 and the final result notified in November 2012.
b) The number of awards is as follows - First Place: 1, Second Place: 2, Honorable Mentions: 17
c) The top 3 winners will be invited to the Award Ceremony held in December 2012 in Shanghai Library. All the travel and accommodation expenses during their stay will be covered by the organizers.
d) Each one of the rest 17 finalists will receive an attractive gift.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES / POINTS TO NOTE

a) No entry fee is required.
b) Entries must be received by September 30th, 2012.
c) Each entrant may submit work in MS Word format, together with an Entry Form, and sent via E-mail (jjin@libnet.sh.cn) or CD-ROM.
d) All entries must be original works. Violation of copy rights or intellectual property rights will result in disqualification.
e) Organizers shall not be held responsible for the loss or damage of entries incurred during delivery.
f) Works submitted to the contest will not be returned.
g) The organizers reserve the final right of interpretation concerning the event.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For inquiries: jjin@libnet.sh.cn

For submissions: jjin@libnet.sh.cn

Website: http://windowofshanghai.library.sh.cn

Deadline: May of each year

The Department of Public Information (DPI) Training Programme for Broadcasters and Journalists from Developing Countries (the former name of the Programme) was established by the 97th General Assembly Plenary Meeting through resolution 35/201 (paragraph III- 9) adopted in December 1980.

Since it was organised for the first time in 1981, DPI has sponsored the annual fellowship programme for junior and mid-level journalists from developing countries and countries with economies in transition, providing them with an opportunity to learn more about the work of the United Nations (UN).

The participants take part in a programme of briefings at the UN Headquarters in New York on a wide range of UN issues and visit some major media outlets and relevant non-governmental organizations. They also travel to Washington, D.C. for meetings at the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, and they spend a weekend in Rochester, New York, as guests of American host families to learn more about the United States and the American way of life.

The programme is not intended to provide basic skills training to broadcasters and journalists, as all participants are already working as media professionals. Rather, it exposes participants to the work of the UN and offers them an opportunity to periodically prepare news stories on behalf of their news organizations.

Please note that the programme does not lead to employment by the United Nations. Upon completion of the programme, participants are expected to return to their home countries to continue their work as journalists and to help promote a better understanding of the United Nations and its activities. Upon selection, the United Nations will provide participants with:

* Round-trip economy class tickets to and from New York City by the most direct route.
* Transportation to and from Washington, D.C. and Rochester, New York.
* A daily stipend which covers the cost of housing, meals and transportation to the activities organized by the Programme.

Please kindly note that it is the fellow’s responsibility to carry adequate medical insurance.

Since 1981, more than 470 broadcasters and journalists from more 160 countries have taken part in the programme.

Selection Process

Each year the United Nations Department of Public Information pre-selects countries to participate in the fellowship programme. These countries are chosen on a rotating basis using the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs’ (DESA) classification of developing and transitional countries.

The appropriate UN field offices (UN Information Centres or UNICs, local offices of the UN Development Programme or UNDP, etc.) then assist DPI in identifying local qualified candidates, amongst which DPI selects one applicant per participating country.

The candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

* Candidates must be nationals of a pre-selected country.
* Candidates should be between the age of 22 and 35.
* Candidates should be employed by recognized, independent media organizations. Freelancers, government employees and UN employees are thus ineligible.
* Candidates must be fluent in English. All briefings and workshops during the programme are conducted in English only. Candidates from non-English-speaking countries are required to successfully pass a written and oral exam in English.
* Candidates should have several years of professional journalism experience and a proven interest in international affairs.

Please note that no more than one applicant per pre-selected country can participate and that applications of former participants will not be accepted.

If you are interested in applying for the Reham Al-Farra Memorial Journalists' Fellowship Programme, please find the UNIC or UNDP office closest to you and contact them to see whether your country is among this year’s list of pre-selected countries eligible to participate. This list becomes available each year in May. Applicants are selected in June.

Contact Information:

For inquiries: click here

Website: http://www.un.org/en/media/fellowship/

Deadline: 27 May 2012

Here are the rules to the contest. Bassey Ikpi will keep you updated on the details via twitter and Facebook fan page.

Rules:

1. The theme of the contest is "home".

2. Submit an original poem that is at least half in English.

3. Video submissions should be no more than 2 minutes long.

4. You can enter the competition from anywhere in Africa but you will cover your costs should you be chosen. That means if you want to participate, you have to get to Lagos on your own.

5. The video must be recorded specifically for the competition. One camera; one poet. No live performance videos. No special effects.

6. Before you begin your video, state your name and where you're from. Please include that info as well as an email address in the information box of YOUR video.

7. Upload your video as a video response to THIS video. That means that if you don't have a Youtube channel or account, you need to get one. If you have a gmail account, then you have a Youtube account.

8. Share with your friends and get them to 'like' your video for a chance to be picked as the audience favourite.

9. Make sure you follow Bassey Ikpi on Twitter and like her Facebook fanpage for updates to the contest.

10. Contest ends at 11:59PM (EST, US) 27, May 2012. Any video received any time after the contest ends will not be considered for the contest.

Other details are discussed in this video.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For enquiries: contact Bassey Ikpi via Twitter or Facebook

Website: http://basseyworld.wordpress.com/

Deadline: 31 October 2011

When the higher meaning behind the White Lions was brought to the world in Linda Tucker's book, Mystery of the White Lions (2001); artists, poets, visionaries and every day people across the globe were inspired by the importance of these luminous beings. Our 1st competition received thousands of entries which has resulted in a coffee table book full of inspirational treasures. We are now running our 2nd competition and in true White Lion energy are embracing a new group of worthy causes supporting Marine Mammals.

As with the White Lions, the Whales, Dolphins and Seals work through the unconditional love vibration. Swin with one in the wild, and you'll be uplifted and rejuvenated. They are the 'Record Keeps', carrying the history of mother earth and maintaining her leylines. Protected by some nations, yet mercilessly slaughtered by others, these sublime creatures should be celebrated and revered.

Submit your entries or questions to: lionmarinecomp@gmail.com or leopardlioncomp@gmail.com

Competition ends 31st October 2011.

Competition information:

Please submit a poem, painting, or photograph electronically of what White Lions or Marine Mammals mean to you. Get creative and come up with something novel and worthy of being published. Please include a brief message that would want to go with your entry. Prizes include having your poem or image published in a special limited edition coffee table book. There will be 2 sets of winners, one for the best poem, and one for the best piece of artwork. The 1st place winners will receive a trip to Tsau! Home of the White Lions in Timbavati and get to experience the royals up close. Spend time with Linda Tucker, her team and myself. Travel cost will be covered within South Africa as well as all meals, while at Tsau! The top 10 positions will get a special edition, editors cut, copy of the book.

By submitting to our competition, entrants give the organizers the right to publish the poem, or image on its website or in any media as we think fit. We reserve the right to cancel or alter or amend the competition at any stage, if deemed necessary in our opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of our control. The best poems and artwork will be used in a coffee table book with all proceeds going to the conservation organizations chosen.

Contact Information:

For inquiries: lionmarinecomp@gmail.com or leopardlioncomp@gmail.com

For submissions: lionmarinecomp@gmail.com or leopardlioncomp@gmail.com

Website: http://www.whitelionshomeland.org/

Deadline: 20 February 2012

REGISTRATION FOR GREENHOUSE'S 2012 PROGRAM IS NOW OPEN!

Greenhouse's 2012 call for applications for The Development of Documentary Films by Southern Mediterranean Cinema School Graduates supported by the EU in the framework of Euromed Audiovisual III is Now Open!

We would like to invite Cinema School Graduates & Emerging Filmmakers from Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria & Tunisia to submit documentary projects at any stage of development!

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: February 20th 2012

Greenhouse is an advanced contemporary development program for documentary films aimed at Mediterranean Cinema School Graduates & Emerging Filmmakers from Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria & Tunisia.

Greenhouse is supported and funded by the European Union in the framework of EUROMED AUDIOVISUAL III program and managed by the New Foundation for Cinema and TV – Israel, ESAV Marrakech - the Marrakech School of Visual Arts – Morocco, The Ankara film association – Turkey, Zebra Production – Spain and APPEL & HONIGMANN – Holland.

Greenhouse is a yearly program hosting 10-12 projects each round.
The selected filmmakers are invited to participate in three seminars in which they will develop a full international production package and a professional trailer which will be presented in a pitching forum in front of international commissioning editors, film funds directors, producers and distributors from the documentary international market.

In its 6 years of activity, Greenhouse has achieved exceptional success and has become a leading organization for documentary filmmaking internationally.

Greenhouse is working with leading forces from the international audiovisual sector, commissioning editors, film funds directors, producers, distributors, TV stations and film festivals from all over the world– The Sundance Institute, Jan Vrijman Fund (IDFA), ARTE/ZDF, ITVS, Channel 4, BBC Worldwide, World Cinema Fund, P.O.V, MDR Germany to name a few.

In its six years of activity14 films were completed and won prestigious awards in international film festival; 92 projects and 122 filmmakers participated from 9 Southern Mediterranean countries.

To read more about Greenhouse please go to http://www.ghfilmcentre.org

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

■ The participants must be citizens of one of the Southern Mediterranean countries: Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria and Tunisia.

■ The seminars, workshops and tutorial sessions will be held in English, so the participants must have basic knowledge in this language.

■ Each team (director and producer) will have to participate in a full series of three seminars within a year.

■ The project submitted may be in any stage of development, including initial footage.

■ Applicant may act as a director-producer of a project.

■ Eligible are filmmakers who made at list one short film but not more than two one hour films or a feature length documentary.

SELECTION OF PARTICIPANTS

A team of International experts will select a maximum of 12 projects each year, in teams of director/producer (i.e. max. 24 participants) on the basis of the application submitted, which should include:

■ Application form (www.ghfilmcentre.org )

■ Synopsis of 1 to 3 pages

■ Director's statement

■ Initial budget and financial support

■ The applicants' CVs

■ Two references from a professor or a professional (for each team)

■ Previous cinematic work (if applicable) – DVD only.

■ Applications must be submitted in English

■ Applications must be sent in ONE WORD FILE which includes all requested documents mentioned above.

· The selected filmmakers will be Awarded A Complete Grant covering tuition fees, round trip plane ticket, accommodations and meals during the seminar.

** Submissions should be sent by email to: info@ghfilmcentre.org

To read more about Greenhouse please go to http://www.ghfilmcentre.org

For additional information contact us at:

Email: info@ghfilmcentre.org
Tel: +972-3-5224457
Fax: +972-3-5230909

Contact Information:

For inquiries: info@ghfilmcentre.org

For submissions: info@ghfilmcentre.org

Website: http://www.ghfilmcentre.org

Deadline: 31 July 2012

The window is open for entries! Ugreen Foundation is glad to announce the second edition of the Creative Wings Short Story contest, titled the Creative Wings Short Story Prize 2012.

The ‘Creative Wings Short Story Prize’ was endowed in 2011, by the Executive Director of Ugreen Foundation, Obinna Udenwe, as his contribution towards encouraging young African writers, in line with one of the visions of Ugreen Foundation which is to encourage citizens participation in knowledge building.

In 2012, the Prize will accept entries from all African writers residing anywhere in the world and will annually give books as Prizes. Writers between the ages of 0 – 40 years old and of African origin and writers whose one parent is from Africa are encouraged to apply.

In the words of Obinna Udenwe as regards the 2012 edition of the contest, he said: ‘My dream is to continuously encourage the growth of literature and arts in Africa. I have continued as a writer and an activist to engage in intellectual pursuit and to work with young people like myself. I have discovered that in this world of ever increasing phobia for uncertainties, increase in vices and delinquencies, unprecedented rise to its peak the level of crimes, terrorism, inhumanity and gross devaluation of traditions and societal negligence, we must continue, as lovers of arts and literature to use our talents, gifts and resources as means of entrenching an overhaul change in our society. There is no better way of doing this than through arts and literature. Our Creativity Class program that annually trains twenty young people on writing and oratory has proved to me that we have talents in Africa and that a lot needs to be done to encourage them – but only few people are ready to contribute… One of the winners of the first edition of this Prize, Mr. Vincent Bura-Bari Nwilo attended our Creativity Class training as a facilitator. It was wonderful meeting someone that this Prize has given publicity, encouragement and voice. His presence in the training encouraged the twenty students, it formed alliances and friendships and this is my quest – love, synergy and commitment. In Ugreen Foundation, we believe that this second edition of the Creative Wings Short Story Prize will bring in wonderful stories that delves into the nooks and crannies of African society and the world at large, helping us learn more about our environment and the people in it.’

2012 PRIZE

1. Ugreen Foundation will give out twenty (20) books for the 2012 edition of the contest. First Prize winner will receive a total of fifteen (15) books and the second Prize winner, will receive five (5) books. The books will be couriered to the winners anywhere they are in the world.

2. If the winner(s) resides in Nigeria, he gets an opportunity to attend in March, 2013, as special guest, the ‘Sen. Chris. Nwankwo Youth Creativity Class,’ a program of Ugreen Foundation that trains and empowers twenty young people economically, and intellectually in the field of writing and oratory.

Ugreen Foundation will cover transportation costs (round trip), accommodation for five nights and meals, including N30, 000 honorarium, (including tours round the state and evenings of cocktails).

If the winner(s) resides outside Nigeria and wants to attend, Ugreen Foundation will provide all of the above mentioned, excluding cost of air-travel into and out of Nigeria. The program holds annually in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital.

ENTRY RULES AND GUIDELINES

1. Entry is free.

2. Entries must not be more than 600 words long.

3. Entrant must not be more than 40 years old.

4. Entrant must be a writer of African origin living anywhere in the world. (Once an entrant is shortlisted, Ugreen Foundation will need evidence identifying the entrant as African and evidence showing date of birth).

5. Only one submission per entrant is permitted.6. Stories must be original work of the entrant and previously published works will not be accepted for the Prize.

7. Only online submissions are acceptable.

8.Entries should be emailed to creativewingscontest2012@gmail.com. Paste story on the body of the e-mail. Use ‘Creative Wings Contest’ in the subject line. Entries with attachments will be disqualified.

9. The email must contain the entrant’s name, the title of story, and the entrant’s physical address, a brief bio of NOT more than 50 words, Date of Birth, and contact phone number.10. Simultaneous submissions are NOT acceptable.11. Writers are not restricted to any theme.

12. Entries must be in English ONLY.

13. Previous winners are eligible but must apply with a different story.

14. Shortlisted entrant must agree to provide us with his/her photograph and agree to allow Ugreen Foundation and all the Prize publicists use the photograph for publicity.

15. Entries are open from June 1st to 12 Midnight July 31st.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For queries/ submissions: creativewingscontest2012@gmail.com

Website: http://www.ugreenfoundation.org

Deadline: 14 May 2012

The Scripps Howard Foundation Semester in Washington internship program brings two international students per year to Washington, D.C., to work at the Scripps Howard News Service for a semester. The internship is designed to give international students an opportunity to cover events in the U.S. capital, as well as to report and write feature stories for the Scripps Howard Foundation Wire. Stories written by Scripps Howard interns may be published in newspapers across the United States. ICFJ has selected an intern for the spring 2012 term. The deadline to apply for the fall 2012 term is May 14, 2012. The fall 2012 internship begins September 10, 2012 and ends December 14, 2012.

The internship is open to undergraduate journalism or communications students who intend to pursue careers in journalism after graduation. Interns must be fluent in both spoken and written English. Interns who are selected in the program will work in one of two periods: January to April or September to December.

The internship is sponsored by the Scripps Howard Foundation, which strives to advance the cause of a free press through support of excellence in journalism, quality journalism education and professional development. International participants in the program are recruited and selected by the International Center for Journalists, which provides training and other assistance to journalists across the globe.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the deadline to apply for the fall 2012 term of the Scripps Howard Semester in Washington Internship Program? The deadline to apply for the fall 2012 term is May 14, 2012.

When does the fall 2012 internship begin? The fall 2012 internship begins September 10, 2012 and ends December 14, 2012.

Can graduate students or professional journalists apply to the internship? No. The internship program is only opened to undergraduate students.

What expenses are covered for the duration of the internship program? ICFJ will pay for round-trip economy air fare to and from the United States; housing; a per day meal/living/transportation allowance; and health insurance for the duration of the program. Selected participant assumes responsibility for all incidental expenses. The program cannot cover salary or pay honoraria.

What is the English language proficiency requirement? Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language. ICFJ will use the application essay to help determine an applicant’s ability to communicate in English.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For inquiries: cjimenez@icfj.org

For submissions: apply here

Website: http://www.icfj.org

Deadline: 27 May 2012

Here are the rules to the contest. Bassey Ikpi will keep you updated on the details via twitter and Facebook fan page.

Rules:

1. The theme of the contest is "home".

2. Submit an original poem that is at least half in English.

3. Video submissions should be no more than 2 minutes long.

4. You can enter the competition from anywhere in Africa but you will cover your costs should you be chosen. That means if you want to participate, you have to get to Lagos on your own.

5. The video must be recorded specifically for the competition. One camera; one poet. No live performance videos. No special effects.

6. Before you begin your video, state your name and where you're from. Please include that info as well as an email address in the information box of YOUR video.

7. Upload your video as a video response to THIS video. That means that if you don't have a Youtube channel or account, you need to get one. If you have a gmail account, then you have a Youtube account.

8. Share with your friends and get them to 'like' your video for a chance to be picked as the audience favourite.

9. Make sure you follow Bassey Ikpi on Twitter and like her Facebook fanpage for updates to the contest.

10. Contest ends at 11:59PM (EST, US) 27, May 2012. Any video received any time after the contest ends will not be considered for the contest.

Other details are discussed in this video.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For inquiries: contact Bassey Ikpi via Twitter or Facebook

Website: http://basseyworld.wordpress.com/

Deadline: 23 March 2012

Join the TckTckTck team at the Rio +20 Earth Summit this June and be part of an event that could, if successful, chart a course to a sustainable future. TckTckTck is looking for a climate-smart blogger or videographer to be part of our on-the-ground team in Rio; to help us share stories and keep climate change and renewable energy on the agendas of world leaders.

The Rio +20 organizers say ‘The future is yours.” We say make it count! Fill out the Rio Prize entry form to get started.

What you win:

• Accreditation to the UN conference with TckTckTck
• Coach class air travel between a major airport near the winner’s residence and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from approximately 12 June 2012 to 23 June 2012
• Accommodation at the TckTckTck team hotel for approximately 10 nights
• Spending money to cover daily expenses, up to $50 per day, up to $500 total

You should apply for the Rio +20 Blogger Prize if you meet the following criteria:

• You have reached the age of majority in your country (void where prohibited or restricted by law).
• You have an active Twitter account.
• You have a keen interest in climate change and sustainable energy (ideally you’re already writing about these topics).
• You write or speak in a clear, creative and engaging style.
• You are fluent in English. (Apologies multi-lingual bloggers, but we only have the capacity to manage English entries).

Fill out the entry form with your contact information, and you’ll receive email instructions for confirming your registration and submitting a post to the contest.

Your blog or video should pertain to the Rio Summit or one of our core campaign issues or climate solutions. You’re welcome to repurpose an old blog. Just make sure it’s your best stuff, and the link is permanently accessible on the web. Also include a link-back to the Tck website and/or a Tck logo to help identify it as an official entry. Feel free to use these media assets for your post [1, 2, 3, 4].

Submit your link on the Tck Facebook page before Friday, 23 MARCH 2012 at 11:59 p.m. UST. Alternatively (if you don’t have a Facebook page) you can email your link to rioprize [at] tcktcktck [dot] org.

On 2 APRIL, 2012 we will announce 10-15 finalists for the Rio+20 Blogger Prize as selected by a panel of Tck partners, allies and staff. Successful entrants will be notified via Email, Twitter & Facebook.

Finalists will be asked to submit an original work, 500 word count (or max 3 minute video) on a topic TBD related to Rio+20 and the Earth Summit no later than 9 APRIL, 2012. The blogs will be posted on TckTckTck.org.

Finalists will be encouraged to use their social networks to drive traffic to their entries and facilitate discussion during the during the period 10 APRIL, 2012 through 15 APRIL, 2012.

A jury of notable bloggers, NGO leaders, and environmental experts will select the winning blog or video based on its editorial quality (50%), traffic generation (25%) and quality of discussion (25%). The winner will be notified on 20 APRIL, 2012 by 11:59pm UST via email, Twitter and/or Facebook. Two runners-up will be selected in the event the winner cannot make the trip.

1. THE CONTEST AND THE CONTEST PERIOD

THE RIO BLOGGER PRIZE contest (the “Contest”) commences at 12:01 a.m. UST on 23 FEBRUARY 2012. The “Entry period” concludes at 11:59 p.m. UST on 23 MARCH 2012. Voting and commenting on the selected finalists concludes at 11:59 p.m. UST on 15 APRIL 2012 (the “Contest Period”).

2. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY

3. ELIGIBILITY

The Contest is open only to persons who have reached the age of majority in their place of residence and are legal residents of the United States, Canada (excluding Quebec residents), or any other country where offered and permitted by law. Present employees and directors of the Global Campaign for Climate Action (GCCA), the TckTckTck campaign, any of its partner organizations or any employees, directors and officers of their respective advertising and promotional agencies, as well as family members of any of the foregoing and persons residing in the same household as any of the foregoing are not eligible to participate. Contest is void where prohibited or restricted by law.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For submissions: fill out the entry form here

Website: http://tcktcktck.org

Date: 5 - 9 September 2011

Love travel? Love writing? Love Cape Town? Then don’t miss the Postcards from Cape Town Travel Writing Retreat. Held from 5-9 September this unique retreat will take you on a travel writing journey through the sights, sounds and scents of this sensational city.

Accompanied by veteran guidebook author and travel writer, Kim Wildman, you’ll learn the art of writing and selling travel stories while uncovering the heart and soul of Cape Town. During the day you’ll explore some of the city’s most famous sights practising writing and researching skills learnt in workshops. Come the evenings, you’ll enjoy the tastes and flavours of the Cape Town’s best restaurants along with the company and conversation of leading travel writers, photographers, authors and editors.

If that's not enough, MSN NZ, the international media portal for the MSN Network in New Zealand, has offered to publish the best travel articles written during the course of the week on their popular Travel Bite website (http://travel.msn.co.nz). So not only will you experience what it takes to be a travel writer, you might even get published! See the attached brochure for more details.

Included in the retreat: two restaurant dinners, a guided city centre walking tour, cable ride to Table Mountain (weather permitting), tour of Robben Island, day trip to Cape Point taking in the beautiful seaside villages of Simon’s Town, St James and Kalk Bay, wine tasting at Groot Constantia and a hamper lunch (inclusive of entry fees to Boulders Beach and Cape Point) as well as fun and informative writing workshops and one-on-one time with Kim.

Not included in the retreat: accommodation, transport to/from B&B and restaurants, airport transfers, additional meals, alcohol and drinks, laundry, telephone, personal expenses, spending money, tips for guides, airfares, visas and travel insurance.

Participants can stay anywhere in the city, though will, of course, have to provide their own transport to/from Dunkley House, where we'll meet for workshops, and local restaurants.

Any participants who choose to stay at Dunkley House, where workshops will be held, will be offered a 10% discount on accommodation.

This retreat is suitable for beginning writers upwards. Places are strictly limited, so contact Kim Wildman on kim@wildwriting.com.au to make a booking now. For more information visit: http://www.wildwriting.com.au/retreats/cape-town.

Facilitator: Australian-born Kim Wildman has spent the better part of the last ten years criss-crossing the African continent as a travel writer, guidebook author and wannabe National Geographic wildlife photographer. She has authored and updated more than 15 guidebooks including Lonely Planet's South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland and West Africa, Bradt Travel Guide's Tanzania and Ghana, and Random House Struik's Offbeat South Africa. Kim has a Masters Degree in African Studies attained from the University of Cape Town. Recently voted one of Tripbase's 100 Favourite Travel Writers in the world, her feature articles have appeared in Travel Africa, abouTime, Planet Africa, The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and Voyageur magazine. Visit her website at: www.wildwriting.com.au

Testimonials from Kim's past travel writing workshops

"Excellent! The course was very useful and exceeded my expectations." Amy Dalguish, Travel Editor, Total Travel

"Kim Wildman lead a clear and inclusive travel writing workshop which not only focused on the skills of writing and storytelling but the business of travel writing and having your work published. A fun and valuable course by an experienced travel writer." Holly Galbraith, Go Future Media

Contact Information:

For inquiries: kim@wildwriting.com.au

Website: http://www.wildwriting.com.au