Young Writers Invited to Submit Essays for Rod Oram Memorial Prize

A call for entries has been announced for the inaugural Rod Oram Memorial Essay Prize, aimed at young writers in Aotearoa New Zealand. This initiative seeks essays that advocate for a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate world. The deadline for submissions is set for March 27, 2026, at 17:00.

The prize is established in memory of Rod Oram, a highly regarded journalist and environmentalist, whose influential work focused on business, governance, and societal issues. Oram passed away in March 2024, leaving a significant void in the New Zealand media landscape. His commitment to rigorous research and passionate commentary inspired many, and this award aims to continue his legacy.

Essay Theme and Submission Guidelines

Young writers under the age of 25 are invited to respond to the question: “What must we do – and do now – to ensure that future generations live well in Aotearoa New Zealand?” Essays should reflect a strong commitment to evidence-based arguments, incorporating current data related to economics, society, and environmental concerns.

Submissions should include:

• An evidence-based argument supported by up-to-date statistics.
• Practical solutions addressing well-defined issues.
• A compelling writing style that engages a diverse audience.
• A distinctive perspective rooted in Aotearoa, while also considering the global context.

Writers are encouraged to draw inspiration from Oram’s extensive body of work, which often revolved around themes such as innovation, climate change, and the concept of ‘common wealth.’ His inquiry into how humanity can thrive on the planet remains relevant today.

Prize and Judging Panel

The winning essay will receive a prize of $1,000 and will be published on Newsroom, a platform that Oram contributed to extensively. Additional essays may also be published at the discretion of the editorial team.

The judging panel consists of notable figures, including:

• Vincent Heeringa, a former publisher who collaborated with Oram for over 20 years.
• Anna Fifield, Asia-Pacific editor for the Washington Post, who has been a friend of Oram for 25 years.
• Jonathan Milne, managing editor of Newsroom Pro, who worked alongside Oram at the Sunday Star-Times.
• Celeste Oram, composer and musician, and daughter of Rod Oram.

Eligible participants must be New Zealand citizens or residents under the age of 25 as of March 27, 2026. Essays should not exceed 1,500 words and can be submitted via email to [email protected].

This essay prize not only commemorates Rod Oram’s contributions but also aims to inspire the next generation of writers to engage with pressing global issues and contribute to a better future.