2026 National Youth AI Journalism Competition: Final Results

On October 9, 2026, CAST-NC and its co-organizers announced the final results of the 2026 National Youth AI Journalism Competition. Under the theme "Content First, AI as a Tool," more than 40 students in grades 6–12 submitted original reporting that combined first-hand observation, interviews, and responsible use of AI tools. Thank you to every participant, parent, teacher, and judge who made the inaugural competition possible.

Final Results

First Prize

• Joshua Li
• Jacqueline Liu

Second Prize

• Eshaan Khaira
• Jake Xu
• Kingston Hurt
• Uistean Travers
• Jacqueline Li

Third Prize

• Albert Qin & Jerry Li (joint entry)
• Sabrina Ingui
• Avery Foster

Honorable Mention

• Miller Xu
• Yiwei Zhang
• Wan Tong Lin

Certificates

Each winner's name above links to a permanent certificate page on castnc.org that can be shared or added to a LinkedIn profile. Every other participant also received a Certificate of Participation.

Find your certificate by name →

About the competition: 2026 National Youth AI Journalism Competition.