Young Writers Invited to Enter the Rod Oram Memorial Essay Prize

Young writers in Aotearoa New Zealand are invited to submit essays for the inaugural Rod Oram Memorial Essay Prize, honoring the legacy of the respected journalist and environmentalist who passed away in March 2024. The prize aims to inspire the next generation to advocate for a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate world. Entries will be accepted until March 27, 2026, at 17:00.

Rod Oram was renowned for his insightful commentaries on business, government, and societal issues, all grounded in rigorous research. His work emphasized the importance of human action in addressing pressing global challenges. The prize seeks to capture the essence of Oram’s contributions, as reflected in a poignant quote from his first column on Newsroom: “We see the deep damage we’re inflicting around the world. Ecosystems are suffering, societies are shattering, politics are polarising and economies are failing to deliver what we need.”

The competition invites submissions from New Zealanders under the age of 25 across all disciplines, addressing the question: “What must we do – and do now – to ensure that future generations live well in Aotearoa New Zealand?” Essays should consist of an evidence-based argument, solutions for well-defined problems, and a compelling writing style that engages a wide audience. Importantly, the submissions should reflect a unique Aotearoa perspective within a global context.

Participants may draw inspiration from Rod Oram’s extensive body of work and the subjects he championed, including business innovation, environmental sustainability, and the broader notion of the common good. His enduring question was, “How can 10 billion people live well on this planet?” This inquiry can guide young writers as they formulate their own perspectives.

Essays must be original, showcasing the writer’s individual views. Personal experiences that relate to the themes of the essay are encouraged, as Oram often infused his writings with personal insights. The winning entry will receive a prize of $1,000 and will be published on Newsroom.co.nz. Other essays may also be selected for publication at the discretion of the editorial team.

Eligibility criteria include being a citizen or resident of New Zealand under the age of 25 as of March 27, 2026. The essay should not exceed 1,500 words and must be submitted via email to [email protected].

The judging panel comprises prominent figures in journalism and the arts, including Vincent Heeringa, a former publisher with extensive experience working alongside Oram; Anna Fifield, Asia-Pacific editor for the Washington Post and a long-time friend; Jonathan Milne, managing editor of Newsroom Pro; and Celeste Oram, a composer and musician, who is also Rod Oram’s daughter.

This essay prize serves not only as a tribute to Rod Oram’s legacy but also as a platform for young voices to contribute to the discourse surrounding sustainability and social equity. It represents an opportunity for the youth of Aotearoa to engage meaningfully with the pressing issues of our time.