In a country where young people are often the subject of discussion but rarely invited to shape it, Outlook and L’Orient Today are teaming up to open a space for new perspectives.

This writing competition is the first in a growing collaboration between our newsroom and student media — beginning with Outlook, the independent gazette of the American University of Beirut. It’s a chance for student writers to engage critically with the region and to contribute to a growing public conversation.

The theme for this round is “Cultural Preservation in the Face of Modernization.” Participants are invited to explore how communities across the Middle East are striving to protect their cultural heritage — be it language, tradition, art, architecture or identity — amid rapid modernization and globalization. A special focus may be attributed to cultural preservation amidst war. Writers may reflect on the tensions between progress and/or war and preservation and on the efforts being made by individuals or groups to safeguard what makes their culture unique. Submissions can draw from research, personal experience, or a blend of both.

This first round is open exclusively to Outlook members, but the goal is to extend this initiative to other student-led publications and universities across Lebanon, and to create more lasting connections between young writers and national platforms.

The three winning articles will be featured on L’Orient Today, and the winner will be announced on April 23.

Submissions deadline: Friday, April 18, 2025, at 11:59 PM

Submission form: Click here

Open to: Outlook contributors and team members

We’re excited to read more young voices — and to keep building bridges between student media and national platforms.

Outlook and L’Orient Today