Mensa Canada’s 2024 Winter Writing Contest winners have been announced, and they’re nothing short of extraordinary. This year’s theme, “Describe a magical winter night where unexpected events bring wonder and change,” inspired young writers across the nation to let their imaginations soar. The contest highlighted creativity, plot progression, and storytelling - all within a tight word limit.
(artwork by Hailey Tsui)
From tales of snowstorms with feelings to a mystical journey beneath the Northern Lights, the qualifiers displayed exceptional narrative skills. These captivating stories are now proudly published on the Mensa Youth Blog, cementing these young authors’ places as promising literary talents.
Contest Highlights
The Mensa Winter Writing Contest aims to encourage intellectual and creative growth in young members, providing them with an opportunity to express their imagination. Open to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, the contest is highly regarded within the Mensa community.
This year’s entries were judged based on their adherence to the theme, originality, and coherence. The winners, categorized by grade levels, showcased a dazzling variety of narratives:
2024 Qualifiers and Their Magical Stories
- Grade 1: Annabelle Wilson
“A boy discovers a magic stone in his pocket, enabling him to perform kind deeds for others—a simple wish come true that transforms his winter night.”
- Grade 2: Hailey Tsui
“Santa’s sleigh goes missing, but with help from Jack Skellington and Rudolph, he saves Christmas in time for hot chocolate.”
- Grade 3: Lucas Wilson
“A lonely snowstorm named Snowy finds happiness as children play joyfully in the fluffy snow it created.”
- Grade 3: Aadhi Sollin Selvan
“Two boys transported to a frozen wonderland must brave challenges to stop a fire tornado threatening their world.”
- Grade 4: Sarah Steponaitis
“A girl’s dream of reaching the stars inspires her to become an astronaut, transforming her future with determination.”
- Grade 5: Viram Melien
“Ella meets a snow sprite and helps create the first snowfall of the season, turning her town into a winter wonderland.”
- Grade 6: Annabel Chau
“A boy nicknamed Sliver faces challenges after a cave collapse, finding resilience and a deeper appreciation for life.”
- Grade 6: Sonya Kara
“During a turbulent flight on Christmas Eve, a girl learns the true meaning of family and forgiveness.”
- Grade 6: Maya Kara
“Three mice, facing a harsh winter, embark on a daring quest to meet Santa Mouse and save their Christmas.”
- Grade 6: Ram Sahasrabudhe
“Santa, exhausted after Christmas deliveries, embarks on a whimsical vacation to Norway, planned with the help of a clever chatbot.”
- Grade 7: Ishaan Alagawadi
“Twin siblings find themselves at the North Pole after touching a magical snow globe, meeting Santa and returning with a newfound sense of wonder.”
- Grade 10: Vali Melien
“A girl helps a mysterious boy free his frozen world beneath the Northern Lights, finding friendship and healing along the way.”
Why It Matters
The Mensa Winter Writing Contest isn’t just about winning. It’s a celebration of creative expression, critical thinking, and the power of storytelling. By offering young writers a chance to publish their work, Mensa fosters confidence and intellectual growth in its youth members.
Readers are encouraged to explore these heartwarming and inspiring stories on the Mensa Youth Blog.
What’s Next?
Mensa continues to provide platforms for youth to excel, with more contests and programs planned for the coming year. Aspiring writers should keep an eye on future opportunities to showcase their talent.
Stay tuned to Winner Magazine for more stories of brilliance, and join us in celebrating these remarkable young authors!