Commonwealth Youth Photography Competition 2026: Waves of Change

About This Event

The Commonwealth Youth Photography Competition 2026: Waves of Change invites young people from across the Commonwealth to document the ocean and its relationship to communities, environments, and the future. Open to all Commonwealth nationals and residents aged 18 to 30, the competition is free to enter and accepts photographs across four categories: Human-Ocean Connection, Hope and Resilience, Threats and Challenges, and Innovative Solutions.

Ran by the Royal Commonwealth Society, in partnership with the Commonwealth Secretariat, and the City of London Corporation’s Youth Natural Environment Board, the competition offers a cash prize of £1,000 to the overall winner, with £250 awarded to each of the three remaining category winners. No photography experience or specialist equipment is required. Entrants submit one original photograph and a written statement of up to 300 words.

To celebrate this years ocean and waterways theme, the deadline for entries is on World Oceans Day!