THE UNITED States Agency for International Development and the US State Department called on youth journalists from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to join an essay writing contest on the coronavirus disease 2019.

The topic of the essay should be “#ASEANYouth and Covid19: Response, Recovery, and Resilience.”

“Do you enjoy writing and want to share your idea with the world? Are you looking for an opportunity to boost your writing skills? Join #AYJ2021 and share with us your essay and campaign idea,” the agency said in a Facebook post.

The essays should be fact-based and contain compelling messages showcasing the importance of ASEAN youth in efforts to combat the pandemic.

Contestants should have a partner and should submit their entries before February 14.

The top 20 selected partners will participate in a virtual social journalism workshop to fine-tune their strategy plan. They will receive a $200 stipend to support the implementation of their campaign.

The best performers will be awarded $1,000 for the first winner, $750 for the second winner and $500 for the third winner.