Take part in Young Nature Champion 2024

Take part in Young Nature Champion 2024.

Led by UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, the competition invites young people aged 21 and under to connect with nature over the next six months and submit pieces of writing, short films or audio recordings of their favourite species, place, experience or discovery.

Love Tech, Isle of Man Examiner, Manx Ornithological Society, and Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) are all partners.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘We live in a wonderful Biosphere with so much to see and do. This year we are expanding our annual writing competition to include exciting new categories for film and audio recordings. We would really like to hear and see the passion for the natural world from our young people and give them an exciting avenue to promote their creative expression. There are so many options, from a diary of a day at the beach to a film about a basking shark, or recording of birdsong.’

Graham Makepeace-Warne, MWT’s Head of Engagement, said: ‘One of our strategic goals is to inspire young people to explore the wonders of nature, fostering a lifelong passion for wildlife. The evolution of the competition into encompassing audio and video submissions is truly exciting. As an avid videographer, I anticipate seeing the diverse ways these mediums ignite the creativity of young minds.’

Claire Milne, Love Tech co-founder and Director, said: 'Love Tech is hugely proud to yet again be involved with Biosphere Isle of Man and Manx Wildlife Trust, and to be joining forces too with the Manx Ornithological Society in this latest nature competition for our Island's young people. We can't wait to see what creativity it inspires as it encourages them to connect and engage with nature. Love Tech would like to wish good luck to everyone who takes the opportunity to participate.'

Details of how to enter, formats, deadlines etc are here on our website and individuals, schools, youth groups, etc should study these, as well as the rules, prior to taking part.

The creator of the overall winning entry will receive a unique nature experience for up to four people, tailored to their interests, and lift the beautiful, locally crafted, Young Nature Champion trophy.

Runners-up will receive MWT gift shop vouchers and there is a prize of binoculars and a bird guide for the best bird entry.

Main photo: Russell Moore