Beyond the Essay: How Cultural Competitions Like the Jinnah Young Writers Award Are Shaping a New Generation of Global Citizens
While geopolitical headlines often focus on division, a quiet but powerful trend is unfolding: the deliberate cultivation of cross-cultural understanding through youth programs. The recent eighth Jinnah Young Writers Award, presented in Ankara, isn’t just a celebration of high school essayists; it’s a microcosm of a larger strategy to build bridges between nations, starting with the values held closest to the heart – like family. This year’s focus on “Family as a Source of Strength” underscores a growing recognition that shared values are the most fertile ground for lasting international relationships.
The Jinnah Award: A Model for Cultural Diplomacy
Held annually by the Embassy of Pakistan in Türkiye, the Jinnah Young Writers Award, named after Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, directly fosters educational and cultural ties. The competition’s success isn’t accidental. It taps into a fundamental human need for connection and belonging, framing national identity not as exclusive, but as enriched by shared values. This year’s event, attended by Türkiye’s Deputy Minister for National Education Celile Eren Ökten and Pakistan’s ambassador to Türkiye Yousaf Junaid, highlights the official support these initiatives are receiving. Ökten’s announcement of 2025 as Türkiye’s “Year of the Family” further solidifies the importance of this theme, aligning with President Erdoğan’s vision for social cohesion.
Why Focus on Family Values?
Ambassador Junaid rightly points out that family values are foundational to both Pakistani and Turkish societies. But the emphasis on family isn’t simply about tradition; it’s a strategic choice. Family represents stability, continuity, and a shared moral compass – qualities increasingly valued in a rapidly changing world. By encouraging students to explore these values through writing, the award promotes critical thinking about their own cultural heritage and fosters empathy for others. This approach is far more effective than simply presenting facts and figures; it encourages emotional investment in cross-cultural understanding.
The Rise of Values-Based Diplomacy
The Jinnah Award exemplifies a broader shift towards values-based diplomacy. Traditional diplomacy often focuses on economic and political interests, but increasingly, nations are recognizing the power of shared values to build trust and cooperation. This is particularly important in regions facing complex challenges, where cultural misunderstandings can easily escalate tensions. Programs like this one provide a vital counterweight to negative stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of different cultures.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Impact
Ambassador Junaid’s commitment to expanding the program in future editions is a promising sign. However, the potential for growth extends beyond simply increasing participation. Consider these possibilities:
- Digital Expansion: Leveraging online platforms to reach a wider audience and facilitate virtual exchange programs between students in Türkiye and Pakistan.
- Multilingual Initiatives: Offering the competition in multiple languages to encourage participation from diverse communities within both countries.
- Thematic Evolution: Exploring new themes that address contemporary challenges, such as climate change, sustainable development, or digital literacy, through the lens of shared values.
- Mentorship Programs: Connecting winning students with established writers and cultural leaders for ongoing mentorship and support.
Winners Circle: Recognizing Emerging Voices
This year’s winners – Yağmur Zülfikar (Ankara), H. Ebrar Kesici (Tokat), and Hayrunnisa Keskin (Zonguldak) – represent the bright future of Turkish-Pakistani relations. Honorable Mentions went to Mustafa Yalçınkaya (Konya), Zeynep Ecrin Enişte (Sivas), and Ali Yusuf Sabah (Balıkesir), showcasing a wealth of talent across the country. Their essays, undoubtedly, offer valuable insights into the perspectives of young people on the importance of family and cultural identity.
The Jinnah Young Writers Award isn’t just a competition; it’s an investment in a more peaceful and interconnected future. As nations increasingly recognize the power of shared values, initiatives like this will become even more crucial in building bridges and fostering understanding across cultures. What role do you see youth programs playing in shaping international relations in the coming decade? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
