Haisai and welcome to our Essay Contest commemorating the 125th Anniversary of Okinawan Immigration to Hawaiʻi!

Please read the following details carefully and be sure to follow all instructions.

Theme: Perspective on Immigration
Eligibility: High school students currently enrolled in Grades 9–12
Essay Prompt: As you reflect on this year being the 125th Anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawaii, write about what immigration means to you?
📝 Submission Deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025 (PDF format, emailed to info@huoa.org)
📄 Format: Max 700 words, double-spaced, 12pt Font (Times New Roman), 1” margins
📌 File name of your PDF must include your first and last name
🚫 No late entries will be accepted
🆓 Registration is FREE!

Essays will be judged on personal connection to the theme, writing style, grammar, and originality. Top entries will be recognized at the award ceremony (TBA), and the winner will recite their essay at Kugani Warabi on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at the Hawaiʻi Okinawa Center.

📎 For more details, download the guidelines: 125th Anniversary Essay Contest – Guideline

Good luck, and we look forward to reading your stories! 🌺✍️