Creative Minds Contests 2026: Win Up to ₦200,000 by Using Your Art to Change the Mental Health Conversation

Do you write, sing, paint, film, or design? Here is a chance to turn your talent into cash and, more importantly, into impact.

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) is presenting the Creative Minds Contests, in partnership with ISEEA. It is convened with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism & the Creative Economy, and sponsored by Nuges Media.

What Is Creative Minds Contests About?

The theme is "Lived Experiences Heard, Real Voices, Real Change."

Young creatives are being called on to use storytelling, film, music and visual arts to challenge stigma, inspire hope, and promote positive conversations about mental health.

Categories

You can enter in any of these:

•Film

•Music

•Spoken Word

•Visual Arts: painting, digital illustration, photography, and graphic design

Prizes

🥇 First Prize: ₦200,000

🥈 Second Prize: ₦150,000

🥉 Third Prize: ₦100,000

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

•Country: Open to Nigerians only

•Age: 15 to 35 years

•Work: Your submission must be original and must not have won an award before

Why You Should Apply

•Real money: ₦450,000 in total prizes across the top three spots.

•National visibility: The contest is backed by federal ministries, so winning puts your work in front of a wide audience.

•Purpose: Your art can help end stigma and make it easier for people to speak about mental health.

•Open to many talents: Whether you are a filmmaker, singer, poet, painter, photographer, or graphic designer, there is a category for you.

•Portfolio boost: A national contest win adds real weight to your CV and creative profile.

Deadline

Sunday, 5th October 2026. That is only a few days away, so start now.

How to Apply

Open the application link below in your browser.

Answer all the questions and upload your work.

👉 Apply here: https://rb.gy/py9zt8

Quick Tips Before You Submit

Make sure your work is 100% original and has not won any award before.

Keep your story real. The theme is about lived experiences, so honesty connects.

Approach mental health with care, respect, and hope.

Don't wait for the last day. Upload early in case of network issues.

Final Word

Your story matters, and your talent can start conversations that help someone feel less alone. If you are a Nigerian creative between 15 and 35, don't let this pass you by.

Share this post with a friend, sibling, or colleague who creates. They might just be the next winner.