High school essayists can win iPads, access to APEC

The APEC Hawaii Host Committee, in partnership with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools and the Hawaii Department of Education, has announced an essay contest for students in grades 9 through 12 to take part in the Nov. 7-13 APEC Leaders' Week.

The contest aims to develop a deeper understanding of Hawaii on an international level and to produce youth participation in APEC. Five winners will be selected and provided exclusive access to the APEC CEO Summit for a chance to hear President Barack Obama address attendees.

The contest asks applicants to submit an essay of up to 750 words answering the question "Why is sustainability important to you, Hawaii and APEC?" Students should focus on Hawaii's economic future and the role that sustainability plays in balancing the needs of Hawaii's growing economy while protecting its environment and resources in a socially responsible way. The students also should articulate the importance of sustainability and how sustainable practices will lead to an improved quality of life now and in the future.

Five essays will be selected by a committee based on the level of reader engagement and interest, content, organization and mechanics, and style. Winning student authors also will receive an Apple iPad and have their essays placed on the APEC Hawaii Host Committee website. Winners residing on the neighbor islands will be provided with airfare and ground transportation to the APEC CEO Summit.

Students interested in applying can contact Ryan Masa at the Hawaii Alliance of independent Schools, ryan@hais.org or (808) 973-1533 or Rosanna Fukuda at the Hawaii Department of Education, rosanna_fukuda@notes.k12.hi.us or (808) 203-5539. Essays and all subsequent documents much be submitted by Sept. 16. Winning entries will be announced Oct. 3.