MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH to be discontinued
Founded in 2016, MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH has remained committed to amplifying youth voices through respect, understanding, and compassion inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s principles and legacy. Over the years, the contest has provided a platform for more than 250 students in grades 7-12 to speak out on the issues that matter most to them, reflecting Dr. King's dedication to social change and justice. These powerful messages have resonated with judges, audience members, and a global virtual audience, reaching viewers from the U.S., Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, the UK, Panama, Sweden, and India.
However, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH has struggled to regain the momentum it once enjoyed. Recognizing that all initiatives have a lifespan, it is with a heavy heart that it has been decided to discontinue MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH.
I am deeply grateful for the support and dedication of all involved over the years and for the courageous youth who shared their passionate messages for social change, may they continue to use their voice make the world a better place.
Thank you again for your support and commitment to MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH over the years. Your involvement has made a lasting impact on the lives of these young activists, and for that, I am truly thankful.
Jane Rubini, Founder
Left - Rt. Herb Broadwater, WSFS Bank; 2025 Winner Niranjana Sendil Kumar, Charter School of Wilmington; Vernita Dorsey, WSFS Bank. Thank you WSFS Bank for sponsoring 1st Prize!
“WE MUST SPEAK WITH ALL THE HUMILITY THAT IS APPROPRIATE TO OUR LIMITED VISION, BUT WE MUST SPEAK.”
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
"I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the MLK Voice 4 Youth. I am grateful to you & your team for not only allowing me to share my story but also for providing me with a platform that has propelled me to this next chapter in my life."
Boluwatife Aminu, 2023 2nd Prize Winner
ABOUT MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH
- A platform for youth speaking up in pursuit of change.
- 1st Prize $2,000; 2nd Prize $1,000; 3rd Prize $500
- $250 - Junior high school contestant with top score.
- A certificate of participation, 3 service hours awarded to all semifinalists.
- Contestants are free to choose their activist hero, past or present, whose leadership and actions reflect Dr. King's legacy and inspires them to act for change.
- Contestants have creative freedom to convey their message.
- Registration opens September 21, Peace Day
VISION/MISSION
- To empower, inform, and engage youth voices that promote a just, inclusive, and equitable society.
- To provide youth opportunities to be heard.
- To develop and hone 21st-century skills that will serve them personally, academically, and professionally in their future endeavors.
VALUES
- Guided by Dr. King’s legacy and change through nonviolence, youth when given a safe space to express their views are inspired to act for social change.
- Youth are empowered when they discover their voices can make a difference.
- Amplify youth voices through respect, understanding, and compassion.
YOUTH SPEAKING THEIR TRUTH
their way in pursuit of a better WORLD. $2,000 FIRST PRIZE
Step 1 – Select an American Activist
Step 2 – Check out the Rules
Step 3 – REGISTER
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth is a spoken word contest amplifying youth voices through respect, understanding, and compassion. Contestants have creative freedom to share how their chosen American Activist inspires them to speak up for societal change. In 2025, MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH will celebrate its 9th year.
Contest Rules
MLK Voice 4 Youth
MLK Voice 4 Youth
Contestants, grades 7 – 12, choose their activist hero from a list of American activists, past and present, whose leadership and actions reflect Dr. King's principles for change. The message must be original, authored, composed, and performed by the student(s).
Prizes
MLK Voice 4 Youth
Prizes
First prize $2,000; second prize $1,000; third prize, $500; and $250 to the top junior high student. Semifinalists receive service hours and a certificate.
MLK VOICE 4 YOUTH
505 E. Buck Road, Wilmington, DE 19807