Essay Panel Competition

An Overview

WHAT: A competitive forum that strengthens public speaking, critical thinking, and creative expression, leadership training for students from Elementary through High School.

WHO: Open to students in Grades 1–12, welcoming all youth eager to learn, grow, and challenge themselves.

HOW: Students compete in four categories, each building essential academic and real-world skills:

Essays & Speech (Grades 1–8):
Builds strong writing, clear expression, and confident speaking through structured essays and prepared speeches.
Extemporaneous Essay (Middle* & High School):
A 15-minute on-the-spot writing challenge that develops quick thinking and focused communication.
Extemporaneous Speech (Middle* & High School):
A spontaneous speaking event that strengthens confidence, organization, and impactful delivery.

Information Campaign (Middle & High School):
A youth-led awareness project on issues related to this year’s theme, Faith & Technology—Navigating the Age of AI, encouraging creativity, teamwork, and community engagement.

Upcoming Events

November 2025

02 Nov

14 Dec

Workshop Schedule (Nov-Dec)

Sunday

EVENT DETAIL

January 2026

31 Jan

EPC 2026: Faith and Technology: Navigating the Age of AI

Saturday

EVENT DETAIL

No event found!

Join us for EPC 2026!

We’re excited to announce the annual Essay and Panel Competition (EPC) for 2026. We invite students to participate in this year’s theme:

Register by January 5, 2026 to participate in this exciting opportunity! Please spread the word and encourage your children or students to get involved.

This competition helps young Muslims develop their critical thinking, writing, and speaking skills while reflecting on the relevance of their faith in today’s world.

Don’t miss out! Encourage your child or student to take part in this wonderful chance to grow and make a positive difference!

Celebrate Excellence: Awards, Recognition, and Publishing Opportunities at EPC!

The top five winners in each of the six levels receive cash awards ranging from $25 to $100, along with certificates and trophies. Additionally, their essays may get published in our Young Muslim Voices publication, available on Amazon. You can view past EPC publications here.

All other participants will receive a certificate and trophy.

EPC Live Document

Learn, explore, and follow updates

👉 https://docs.google.com/document/d/17maw_9wN3JbwWP8udWVbozJUmhs6MoRB/edit#heading=h.gjdgxs

(Updated edition coming soon!)

Participant Resources

Judges' Resources

Resources & Tips

We have resources available to help judges with the scoring process.

Testimonials

I was a competitor with Mafiq Foundation’s Essay Panel contest and Debate competition for several years. Alhamdulillah, I can credit Mafiq Foundation for helping me find my love for writing. One thing that I love about their work is that they take all the winning submissions and publish a book every year.

Arif Kabir

Participant

I can’t remember a school year that my parents didn’t encourage me to participate in Mafiq programs. I’ve been involved in EPC and debate clubs since 4th grade. Alhamdulillah due to these programs, my confidence in public speaking has been solidified. I’ve used these skills throughout my schooling and will continue to use them in my professional life.

Imam Bashar Arafat

Participant

EPC has played a crucial role in the childhood development of my kids. The programs have helped build their confidence, writing styles and public speaking skills. The community comments regarding my kids’ confidence have reinforced that EPC is a pillar and beacon of light for the community. If every family partakes in this annual competition – we will see its benefit in waves inshaAllah.

Anum Shami

Parent

I am a student at UMBC, studying biology. I was the judge for the art and media submissions in January earlier this year, and I truly loved doing it as I used to participate in the essay competitions when I was younger. I want to help the youth of our community and give them the opportunity to speak and interact with other muslims of their age.

Hussein Aligabi

Judge