The Antonio Rosmini Writing Challenge is an annual event that draws in keen writers around Rosmini College. It aims to develop students’ creative and academic talents while emphasising the school’s roots in the catholic faith, pairing extraordinary writing skills with the foundational values of “Dignity, integrity and fairness”.

The competition is open to all students and is split into two categories; Junior being Years 7-10 and Senior being Years 11-13. A list of prompts is released for participants to choose from. These ranged from exploring “how volunteering and community service activities strongly express one's faith, contributing to personal growth and a sense of purpose” and examining “how our Catholic faith can provide the resilience and optimism needed to overcome challenges and setbacks in school and their wider lives” 

Upon undertaking one of these statements, an expert essay would be crafted. As the top entries demonstrate, essays were coherent in their arguments and eloquent in language, revelling in the intricacies of their chosen topic while integrating pieces of evidence. What was notable were the links to not only the wider society but to the self and the school. It was beautiful to see positive messages of Rosmini College and the Catholic faith being echoed throughout, a testament to the writer’s attitude. 

Beyond this, it provided students with invaluable advice about facing life’s challenges, finding hope in the faith, and the importance of service (just to name a few). There’s nothing more powerful than what your classmates say to you. We relate with each other, and that’s what the competition is all about. In fact, the best essays are featured in the school’s end-of-year magazine. 

Now it goes without saying that every competition includes a prize. Well, the total prize money for this competition cut a sizeable chunk out of the school’s budget. The winners of each category receive $250! This year, they were Jairus Joseph (Yr12) and Lemuel Joseph (Yr9) - talk about talent running in the family!

As the Antonio Rosmini Challenge continues to pick up steam and attract more students, I’m excited about what lies ahead in the coming years. Excellent writing and critical insights, that’s for sure. (maybe some money for me, too!)

By Maximillian Wong