The Global Youth Awards Song Competition 2026 is officially accepting submissions from talented young people aged 11 to 25, inviting them to compose an original song that captures the spirit of today’s global generation.
Young musicians, songwriters, lyricists, and creators from across the globe now have an exciting opportunity to showcase their creativity and inspire millions through music.
Organized by The Legacy Project, the competition seeks powerful songs that promote unity, courage, creativity, hope, and youth empowerment. The winning composition will become one of the highlights of the Global Youth Awards 2026, a prestigious virtual celebration recognizing young people making remarkable social and environmental impact around the world.
With participants and audiences spanning more than 95 countries, this is an exceptional opportunity for emerging artists to have their voices heard on a truly international platform.
Music has always served as a universal language capable of inspiring change and bringing people together. The Global Youth Awards Song Competition was created to encourage young artists to use their talents to communicate messages that matter.
Whether participants are solo performers, members of a band, or collaborating with friends, the competition welcomes diverse musical styles and creative approaches.
Entrants are encouraged to submit songs that reflect themes including:
- Unity
- Youth leadership
- Global citizenship
- Hope
- Creativity
- Courage
- Positive social change
- Empowerment
- Environmental responsibility
The organizers are looking for authentic voices that reflect the experiences, dreams, and aspirations of young people worldwide.
What Winners Receive
The selected winning song will receive significant international exposure through the Global Youth Awards.
Successful participants can expect:
- Their winning song showcased during the Global Youth Awards 2026
- Live-streamed exposure to audiences across more than 95 countries
- Recognition by respected music industry judges
- Global visibility through the Legacy Project’s promotional platforms
- Opportunity for their music to inspire young people around the world
The winning entry may also be invited to perform live or have the song played during the awards celebration, subject to the organizers’ final arrangements.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be between 11 and 25 years old at the time of submission
- Submit an original song
- Enter individually or as part of a group
- Create music aligned with the values of unity and youth empowerment
The competition welcomes applicants from all countries and musical backgrounds.
Submission Requirements
Participants are required to submit:
- A link to an unlisted YouTube version of their song
- Full song lyrics
- A short explanation describing the inspiration behind the song
- Personal contact information through the official application form
Both audio and video submissions are accepted.
Copyright and Ownership
One of the major advantages of this competition is that creators maintain ownership of their work.
According to the competition terms:
- Participants retain full ownership of their songs
- Songwriters keep their publishing rights and copyright
- Artists remain free to perform, record, or commercially release their songs independently
By entering, participants simply grant The Legacy Project a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the song for purposes connected with the Global Youth Awards.
These uses may include:
- Award ceremonies
- Promotional campaigns
- Social media content
- Marketing materials
- Press releases
- Event videos
Whenever songs are used, the organizers commit to crediting the songwriter and performer.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be reviewed by an experienced panel representing different areas of the music industry.
Judges will evaluate submissions based on:
- Originality
- Creativity
- Musical quality
- Positive message
- Overall impact
The competition seeks songs capable of inspiring audiences and representing today’s generation of young changemakers.
Why Young Artists Should Apply
Beyond the competition itself, participating offers valuable exposure and experience for aspiring musicians.
Benefits include:
- International recognition
- Opportunity to showcase original music
- Global networking opportunities
- Portfolio enhancement
- Increased visibility among youth organizations
- Potential industry recognition
- Contribution to a worldwide movement celebrating youth leadership
For many young artists, this competition represents an opportunity to build confidence while sharing meaningful stories through music.
Application Deadline
Interested applicants must complete their submission before:
Deadline: 1 October 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered, so prospective participants are encouraged to prepare their recordings and supporting materials well in advance.
Final Thoughts
The Global Youth Awards Song Competition 2026 offers much more than a music contest—it is a platform for young voices to inspire communities, promote unity, and influence positive change through creative expression.
If you are a young songwriter with a message that deserves to be heard, this competition provides a unique opportunity to reach a truly global audience while retaining full ownership of your original work. Whether your song reflects hope, resilience, environmental action, or youth empowerment, your music could become the anthem of a generation.
Young creators are encouraged to submit their entries before 1 October 2026 and take their place among inspiring youth leaders from around the world.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official Global Youth Awards Song Competition application portal. Applicants will need to provide their personal details, an unlisted YouTube link to their original song, song lyrics, and a short explanation of the inspiration behind their composition.
Application Deadline: 1 October 2026
