Showcase your creativity and talent in our 2nd Annual Short Story Writing Competition designed for young Muslim writers.

This competition invites writers to explore narratives that reflect Islamic values and ethics, showcasing themes of compassion, perseverance, generosity, and faith. Writers are encouraged to craft stories that align with HHRD’s mission: HHRD is committed to serve humanity by integrating resources for people in need. We strive to provide immediate response in disasters, and effective Programs in places of suffering, for the pleasure of Allah.

Competition Guidelines:
  • Eligibility: Open to young writers (ages 12-18)
  • Theme: (choose from the options below)
  • Length: 800-1,000 words
  • Originality: No AI-generated content. Only original, unpublished work will be considered.
  • Format: Typed, double-spaced, and submitted in the long-answer box below.
Select one of the three themes below and craft an original story that follows the contest guidelines:
  • When Helping Requires Patience: Explore a story where change does not happen immediately. Show how faith, perseverance, and trust in Allah guide someone through long-term struggle, teaching that meaningful impact often unfolds over time.
  • The Responsibility That Comes With Giving: Tell a story about someone who learns that charity is more than generosity, it requires intention, humility, and accountability. Reflect on how giving with sincerity can protect dignity and strengthen communities.
  • Choosing Compassion When It Is Difficult: Write about a moment when showing kindness is challenging (across differences, misunderstandings, or hardship) and how faith leads the character to act with mercy, even when it is not easy.
Important Dates:
  • Submission Deadline: February 2, 2026
  • Winners Announced: February 20, 2026
The top three stories will be recognized with exclusive HHRD prizes mailed directly to the writers as a special token of appreciation. In addition, these winning stories will be featured on the HHRD website and shared with the broader HHRD family through our newsletters, allowing their voices and reflections to inspire a wide audience. All participants will receive certificates in recognition of their creativity, effort, and meaningful engagement during Ramadan.

This contest is open to participants in the U.S. only.

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* 1. Full Name

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* 2. Email

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* 3. Phone Number

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* 4. DOB

Date

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* 5. Street Address, City, State, Zip Code (This information is required to send prizes to the top three winners of the competition and will otherwise remain confidential)

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* 6. Upload Story

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* 7. How Did You Hear About this Contest?

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* 8. Do You Want HHRD to Host More Competitions Like This?

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