Do you have what it takes to be Canada's Next Green Journalist?

photo credit:

We live in a world where pirouettes and twirls can whisk a person to instant fame and shaky renditions of Celine Dion classics can thrust nobodies into the spotlight; it's time to give journalists their moment to shine.

We're on a quest to find Canada’s top environmental journalists in film, photography and writing, and we’re looking to those aged 12-18 to prove that they’ve got what it takes to be Canada’s Next Green Journalist.

Canada’s Next Green Journalist is more than about shining a spotlight on Canadian youth journalistic talent; it’s also about enhancing it. This year, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal with career-launching prizes for each contest category: a digital SLR camera, a waterproof pocket camcorder, and a laptop. And a little motivation for teachers? Each winner takes home $500 for their school.

For 3 years now, we’ve been blown away by the journalistic integrity put forth by youth from across Canada through our Young Reporters for the Environment contests, part of an international project by the Foundation for Environmental Education which pits budding reporters against one another for top prizes. They tackle issues and bring us inspiring local stories on climate change, coastlines, energy, water, agriculture, cities, waste and biodiversity, and they never disappoint. 

The deadline for Canada’s Next Green Journalist is April 30, 2011. While top videos will shine on Environmental Defence’s website, top photos and written entries from Canada will battle for a spot in an international publication against competitors from at least 15 countries.

So, are you a teacher? A proud parent? An ecstatically bright-minded 12-18 year old with big dreams of becoming an internationally acclaimed journalist? Do you have what it takes to be Canada’s Next Green Journalist? Then prove it.

For questions, information and tips, visit our website at youngreporters.ca. 

Sears is the proud sponsor of Canada's Next Green Journalist contest.  Since its beginning in 1953, Sears has always believed in giving back to the communities they serve. Sears Canada is focused on helping young Canadians reach their full potential by supporting local initiatives that contribute positively to their healthy development. For more information about Sear's community programs, please visit: sears.ca