International Literary Youth Contest “Whoever saves one human life, saves a whole universe”
In 2013, Center “Alef” created a national student literary competition under the theme: “Whoever saves one human life saves a whole universe”. The contest has been created in honour of the 70th anniversary of the rescuing of the Bulgarian Jews from the death camps. Throughout the seven editions of the contest more than 1000 young authors, representatives of different ethnic groups between 15 and 19 years old from over 80 cities in Bulgaria took part.
More than 40 participants have received scholarships and monetary prizes. The winners of the 4th, 5th and 6th edition of the competition were awarded with the chance for participating at the International Young Leaders Congress in Hakfar Ha’Yarok, Israel.
The writing competition is gaining more and more popularity. The Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science has officially inscribed the initiative in the National calendar for talented children. Last but not least from year 2021 onwards the winners of the contest will be receiving a yearly state scholarship.
As of this year Alef’s competition is expanding its geographical range. The 8th edition will accept participants from other countries which marks the beginning of transforming the contest into an international event. There will be a separate category created for the foreign students as well as an international jury will be formed.
On a yearly basis Center “Alef” is hosting an official ceremony, which awards the nominated 20 most interesting narratives. The ceremony is an annual key event in the cultural calendar of Burgas, Bulgaria.